World Wrestling Federation '92

[Hewey]

Good stuff Javert, Worldwide was good hype for the Survivor Series. I'm looking quite forward to seeing the title match and the Frye/Simon match. I wouldn't be surprised to see Simon cheat his way into a victory. I'm also looking forward to seeing the Taker/Sting match, I have no idea what the hells pit match is, Maybe some kind of scaffold match?

Also, You used a '92 scenario for this game right? Like you started in January 1992? But at the beginning of the diary it's November '93, Sorry for the dumb question, But did you like begin writing the diary when you got to October '93? I was just wondering about that and if you had recapped the stuff that went on in '92.

Looking forward to what should be a awesome Survivor Series. :thumbsup:

Edited February 3, 2005 by Baby Hewey

[ChuBalso]

SURVIVOR SERIES '97: SHANGRIL-A!

Official Preview

by

Sean Mooney

Hello everyone, I'm Sean Mooney joining you live here at the control centre, ready to bring you the official Survivor Series '97 Perview, Live on November 30th, 1997 - from the PQ, Molson Centre, in Montreal, Canada!!

WWF World Title Unification Elimination Match:

Bret Hart (WWF World Champion) vs. 'The King Of Old School' Steve Corino (1997 C1 CLASH Tournament Winner) vs. Hiroyoshi Tenzan (GWF Heavyweight Champion)

- -

This is one of the most anticipated matches of the Pay Per View!! The road to this match has been nothing BUT exciting! First, Hiroyoshi Tenzan defeats fellow PRIDE wrestler Stan Hansen to win the GWF World Title at Summerslam! Then, Bret Hart wins the WWF World Title from Steve Corino, who won the belt for a third time from former champion, Mr. Perfect. And, finally, Steve Corino wins the grueling C1 CLASH to earn his place to win the Undisputed WWF World Championship! Tenzan's one of the most well balanced WWF champions in history! Corino's proven his championship fever! But one can't count out the hometown advantage that Bret has to have! It's gonna be a classic!

Hell's Pit Match:

The Undertaker vs. Sting

-

Well, Sting left Ted Turner's organisation a few months ago looking for competition--looking to make a difference in the WWF!! And what a chance he has, here! Over the past several months, the Dark Carnival have been spreading terror throughout the WWF! They've abducted several WWF Wrestlers, such as, Tony Halme, Jeff Jarrett, Raymond Rougeau, The Mountie, Road Warrior Hawk--the list goes on and on! I'm hearing that the Undertaker will also go through what he calls a "Night Of Horror!" Will Sting be the final sacrifce!!?

Survivor Match:

The Baddest Men: Captain: Mike Tyson, "Mr. Everything" Andrew Martin, 'The Natural' Butch Reed & Koko B. Ware

VS.

The Baddest Team: Captain: Zeus, New Jack, Rhyno Starr, & Devon Storm

This one is going to be an unbelievable match! This whole story started earlier this year in July when Slick got word of Mike Tyson's ear-biting incident this year. From that point on, many were comparing Mike Tyson to the incredible Zeus!! Who's more unpredictable! Who's wilder!! Who's crazier!! Who's the real "baddest man" in their sport!! Well, we're going to find out at this years Survivor Series, when both men head up their teams, and battle for survival!! Mr. Everything has recruited Slick's former tag team; Doom ED to his star studded team. But can they combat 4 of the rowdiest wrestlers in WWF History: Zeus, New Jack, and The Space Croppers? How will Mike Tyson fair against, New Jack--The Space Croppers--ZEUS!!? This one's going to be a dinger!

4 Way Frenzie (Elimination) Intercontinental Title Match!!:

Shaggy 2Dope (Champion) vs. Owen Hart vs. Carl P. Oulette vs. 'Highlight Kid' Shawn Waltman

- -

-

Now, this match has a chance to be one of the all time classics in WWF History!! Shaggy 2Dope pulled one over everyone's heads last month at the Dark Carnival's Pay Per View, Carnival Of Carnage, when he had referee Bill Alfonso help him win the gold! Now, it seems as if Bill Alfonso is paid by The Dark Carnival!! But this time, he's got 3 other very capable athlethes opposing him. And it seems, that over the last few weeks, 2Dope has won questionable victories over Hart & Waltman!! What will he do with them, AND his chosen opponent, Carl Oulette, opposing him!?! 2Dope better bring his all, because Owen's got the hometown advantage! Waltman's got that determination that we've seen carry him to a 30 minute draw with Owen Hart! And Oulette's got that killer instinct that has made him one of the most improved WWF athlethes of the year! This one's gonna be a banger!

Hayabusa vs. Sabu

-

This is a match I'm really looking forward to seeing! Here, you've got two of the most exhilerating, death defying, athlethes in the WWF pitted against each other! Hayabusa has his amazing 450 splash off the top rope--or as he calls it--THE STARDUST FLIP--as his finisher! While Sabu relys on the addition of a chair to put away his opponents with the Triple Jump Monsault! One thing is for sure--The winner of this match, will surely make a huge step forward in their career!! It's gonna be wild!! It's gonna be crazy!! It's gonna be a whammer!!

Survivor Match:

The CAPD - Team Captain: The Sandman, Barry Horowitz, The Mighty Horace Hogan, The Renegade Warrior

VS.

The Allied Forces - Team Captain: Ringmaster Jim Niedhart, Papa Shango, Xamot & Tamox

Well, this contest has rivarly all over it!! The Sandman can't be too happy with the leader of the Dark Carnival; Ringmaster Jim Neidhart - who is responsible for knocking him out of commision for a couple of weeks after nearly ruining his eye vision on Monday Night RAW! And ever since Paul Ellering's Warriors Of Doom has hit the WWF, they have been on straight course for ending the winning streak of one of the more amazing tag teams in WWF History, The German born--Crimson Twins!! Never before, has there been a tag team that works so effectively together as the Crimson Twins! But will their close bond be enough to help the combined forces of the Dark Carnival and Pride overcome the CAPD? This one's going to be a bammer!

Mike Barton vs. Al Snow

-

There is ALOT of bad blood between these two men! And finally, in front of over 20,000 fans at the PQ Molson Centre in Montreal, Canada - these two are going to let it all out!! Both men began there WWF careers together as Squad CB, then later Operation CB--with the CB standing for Cassidy-Barton. Agent Leif Cassidy and Agent Mike Barton were one of the most fine tuned WWF Tag teams ever! The combination of Al Snow's martial arts, with Mike Barton's pure toughness made for a very strong tag team! However, with this years King Of The Ring, came new goals for one--Mike Barton. Barton turned on Al Snow, aka Leif Cassidy to pursue a singles career, funded by The Million Dollar Man Ted Dibiase--and was successful in that. Not only did he win this years King Of The Ring, but he also went on to make it to the semi's of the C1 CLASH Tournament!! Needless to say, Snow felt betrayed. So betrayed - that he dropped the secret agent moniker, and made his presence felt in the C1 CLASH--perhaps his biggest presence was felt when he caused Mike Barton HIS C1 CLASH semi final match! Well, both men have this built up hatred, and are going to go at each other at Shangril-a! Who will Survive? This one's going to be a droolscooper!

WWF Tag Team Title Match:

The Ebony Experience (Booker T & Stevie Ray) vs. Furnas & Lafon (Champions)

Furnas & Lafon, are another team here that will be right at home! This is there hometown! But, these two young men, Booker T & Stevie Ray don't seem to care about that! With the tag team division starting to heat up with teams like, The Crimson Twins, The Space Croppers, The Wild Outlaws, and the Warriors Of Doom, one can bet that the winners of this match will have a world of competition ahead of them!! Will the Harlem pretty boys be able to taste gold for the first time? Or will the Canadian tag team specialists remain on the top of the WWF Tag Team scene!!? This one's going to be a boomer!

NO Rules:

Don Frye vs. Simond Diamond

-

Well, this certainly has become the talk of the WWF. Since the beginning of the month, Simon Diamond has been going around trying to get Don Frye banned from the WWF! It seems as if he's upset at where Frye came from--The World Of Ultimate Fighting! That's right! Frye's usual calibre of opponents are martial arts and hand to hand combat fighting experts! They range from the most technically sound guys such as Royce Gracie, to the more savage kind, like Ken Shamrock! And they fight with no rules! And, at Surivor Series that's exactly the type of match that Simon Diamond's getting involved in? The catch? If Simond Diamond wins, Don Frye is banned from the WWF!! What will Diamond do? We'll find out at Surivor Series '97: Shangril-A!!

Leave your predictions, comments, analysis, queries--IT'S THE BIGGEST PAY PER VIEW IN WWWF HISTORY!!!

(most accurate predictions gets the Shangril-A cameo)

[ChuBalso]

Only 6 days until Series '97...

Nov 24rd, 1997

Monday Night Raw-

Channel: USA Network - Prime Time

Venue: Toronto Air Centre - Toronto, Canada

Attendance: 12,033

Announcing Team: Joey Styles & Bobby 'The Brain' Heenan

In-Ring Announcer: Joe Pedicino

Referee Team: Bill Alfonso, Mike Chioda, Dave Hebner, Shane McMahon, Jimmy Korderas, Joey Marella, John Finnegan, Jim Mollineaux

By

Dave Schmeltzer

- Hiroyoshi "Corino"? -

Monday Night RAW on 11/24, started off with a shot Joey Styles walking into the building from the back. He welcomed the TV viewers to the Canadian Broadcast of RAW, and then was handed some papers by WWF Executive, JJ Dillon whilst passing through the corridor. With that, the camera shot faded into the opening segments, and returned with Styles walking into the ring to a huge 'Oh My GawD' chant...

Styles" There's no place like, Canada!! (Crowd Cheers) Hello everyone, I'm Joey Styles, and welcome to WWF Monday Night RAW, live from the Toronto Air Centre, in Tooorrrrrroooonntttoooo Canadaaaaa!!!! (Crowd goes wild) Tonight, in the Main Event...the man who could be stepping into the most dangerous match in WWF History--The Hell's Pit' match--Sting will face The Great Kabuki!! PRIDE'S, Mike Barton will face the Homicidal!! The... (Crowd shouts 'Genocidal') The Sui..(Crowd shouts 'Suicidal, Sabu'). Hey stop stealing my lines!! (Crowd pops huge for this). The Intercontinental Championship will be on the line, when Zeus takes on That Pyscopathic Clown, Shaggy 2Dope!! Plus, Bret 'The Hitman' Hart is here, tonight!! (Crowd goes nuts again. Styles has to pause, waiting for the crowd to die down) And finally--The GWF Heavyweight Title will be on the line! Barry Horowitz has a chance to walk into the Survivor Series Main Event...when he faces...."

At this point, PRIDE'S music hit. Except, instead of Hiroyoshi Tenzan coming out, Steve Corino came out...sporting the least flattering gear. He dressed in some kind of costume, mocking Tenzan's usual extravagant ring entrance wear. Corino had a plastic version of Tenzan's head gear, as well as a superman cape. The crowd loved this. Corino, paused...then made Tenzan's trademark cut throat gesture, to a loud laughing pop, before marching to the ring as Tenzan usually does. Once he got into the ring, the crowd was actually chanting Corino's name....

Styles (Laughing) " Hiroyoshi...Corino!??!"

Corino" Mushi, Mushi, Mushi!!! Choi, Choi, Choi!! Whaaa!!!" (He then takes off the head gear, throws it on the floor, steps on it, along with the cape, as the crowd is in a laughing uproar)

Styles" Corino, it's all fun and games--but Tenzan will NOT be happy when he sees this tape!!"

Corino" Well, I'M NOT HAPPY, Styles!! I'm not happy that I lost MY WWF World Title!! I'm not happy that I lost it to that mediocre sap, Mr. Imperfect!! I'm not happy that I later lost it to Bret the Flukeman Hart!! (Crowd instantly turns against Corino. (To the fans) Oh you can all lick my Corino, because just a few minutes ago, I had all of you in the palm of my hands! Tenzan!!! Bret!!! 6 days!! Survivor Series '97!! Live at the PQ Molson Centre!! It's my time!! Tenzan!! I hope that you enjoyed your few months of holding a belt! Because this 'aint New Japan!! This is The Corino Wrestling Federation!!! Hitman!! You've beaten the greats!! But tommorow, you become one of the beaten greats! 6 days, Hitman!! 6 days--YOUR LEGACY ENDS!!"

Corino raises his hands, as "The Eye Of The Tiger" played, with him leaving the ring. Great promo!! Whoever wrote it was really thinking about selling Corino's feud with both The Hitman and Tenzan. Great job. Great heat. 88%

-ADVERTS-

- Mike Tyson gives the KO -

"Mr. Everything" Andrew Martin d. New Jack

Pretty good match. Andrew Martin's gimmick is so outdated. It's basically the same way Hulk Hogan was brought in. Big Man. Goofy cape. Goofy tights. But, for some reason, it's working. Mr. Everything won in 8:33 with the Everything Slam--grabbed the mic..and introduced Mike Tyson.

Mr. Everything" To all of my followers! Ladies and gentlemen please give a Canadian welcome to--well, quite frankly--the only real boxer that Canada has ever seen!! (crowd booes) I give you, 'Iron' Mike Tyson!!!"

With that, Mike Tyson came out to some rap song to a mixture of cheers and booes--mostly booes. He then hovered over New Jack, as Mr. Everything kept making gestures for Tyson to 'knock out' New Jack. Everything pulled up New Jack, followed by Tyson catching him with a convincing roundhouse right. Crowd reacted huge to this. Seconds later, Zeus literally RAN down the isle and into the ring, tackling Tyson down. He actually got Tyson on a tough chokehold, as Styles and Heenan went nuts at this 'show of power' by Zeus. Martin tried to get him off, but to no avail. Doom ED hit the ring, and they even tried to pull Zeus off...but he would not budge. Tyson was trying his best to get out of it, clutching onto Zeus's grasp of his throat. This actually got the "Fuck'em Up Zeus--Fuck'em Up" hockey rhythm chant going. To combat Doom ED, The Space Croppers hit the ring and attacked them, causing a whole mellee...All while Zeus was still choking Tyson. Finally, officials hit the ring going into commercial break. Heenan did a good job of building both teams...

Heenan" My god, Styles!! Look at the crazie's we got in that ring!! On one team, we've got the nutty Zeus. The gangsta thug, New Jack, who's probably been fighting on the streets all his life!! And their teamates? The freakin' Space Croppers!! Look at Rhyno Starr!! Look at Devon Storm!! For heavens sake, they almost attacked their own reflections when they saw them in Ebony's Experience's mirrors!! And, Tyson's team!! Two of the toughest men in the WWF!! 'The Natural' Butch Reed, and Koko B. Ware!! Mr. Everything--another powerhouse!! And of course, the always unpredictable, Mike Tyson!!! AND THEN YOU GOT THAT DAMN BIRD--OLDIE!!"

Overall: 72

Crowd: 85

Match: 73

-adverts-

- The Crimson Twins 'Prepare' For Battle -

Coming off of the break we see Eric Bischoff approaching the locker room door of PRIDE. He knocks. But instead is approached from behind by Jim Cornette. And from each of Bischoff's sides--Tomax & Xamot. They had some really expensive looking suits on this time. Bischoff asked Cornette why the Twins were dressed up. Cornette yelled at Bischoff telling him that the Crimson Twins had mouths, and they could answer Bischoff's "Petty Question"

Tomax" Bischoff!! When we were in the German National Guard we didn't..."

Xamot"...just shoot guns!!"

Tomax" Or merely..."

Xamot"...just fight our battles!"

Tomax" We were also responsible..."

Xamot"...for the planning of several highly..."

Tomax"...complex fighting strategies!" (Bischoff is having trouble moving the microphone between the two brothers switching off--almost comedically)

Xamot" And that's exactly what we're doing..."

Tomax & Xamot" TONIGHT!!"

Xamot" Tonight we're not wrestling--we're planning for the proper defense..."

Tomax"...against drunks like The Sandman!"

Xamot" Against..."

Tomax & Xamot" CAREER FAILURES..."

Xamot"...like Barry Horowitz!" (Crowd really hated this...as Barry has become a WWF favourite that everyone likes to cheer on)

Tomax" And finally..."

Xamot"...and perhaps the most challenging...."

Tomax"...against complete..."

Xamot"..and utter..."

Tomax"...doorknobs..."

Tomax & Xamot" LIKE THE WARRIORS OF DOOM!!!" (This really got the crowd going)

Tomax" Next week, it's the Allied..."

Xamot"...Forces that will Survive!!!"

Tomax" Next week, it's the Allied..."

Xamot"...against the CAPD."

Tomax & Xamot" AND WE WILL SURVIVE!!"

Cornette lead the Crimson Twins into the PRIDE lockeroom, as the crowd booes the trio. 86%

- Simon Diamond; "The Shooter" -

Simon Diamond d. Dr. Wagner Jr.

This match was pushed as Diamond's "practice shoot fight", in preparation for Don Frye at Survivor Series '97. Unfortunately, the crowd was talking amongst themselves for much of this match. Some were talking about the Crimson promo. While others were still buzzing about the whole Tyson-Zeus incident. Diamond won with the ankle lock at 7:33. I wonder what they're going to do. If they want to get Frye over, he has to win. But I can't see them killing off this feud so quickly. It'll be interesting to see what happens.

Overall: 46

Crowd: 32

Match: 73

This match suffered because the crowd were still pumped up from the last one, and so this bout was seen as something of a let-down to them.

- Tyson Insults Zeus -

Shaggy 2 Dope d. Zeus via COUNTOUT - WWF Intercontinental Title

This match last all but 3 minutes--and was just 2Dope running away from Zeus. Mike Tyson emerged just beyond the curtains with a mic in his hand. As expected, Tyson was as eloquent as he could be;

Tyson" Zeus...Hey Zeus!! Over here!! Lemme tell you somefin'! I just wanted everyone to know...that Zeus--YOU CHOKE LIKE A LITTLE B**T*H!"

As expected, Zeus showed just a crazed look, and ran as fast as I ever saw up the ramp. Officials practically swarmed the scene once again, avoiding a confrontation. For the record, they also bleeped out "Bitch".

Overall: 66

Crowd: 85

Match: 49

The WWF Intercontinental title has lost image.

- Al Snow Lets it Out -

Sabu d. Mike Barton

They gave these guys alot more time then I thought they would. And what a great decision that was. The WWF crowd has become so much like All and New Japan in that they actually get into a match if it's 'good'. Barton has to be one of the most underated guys in the sport. Al Snow came out from the back at 12:22, and walked over to the time keepers table, staring at Barton the whole time. This started a huge "Let It Snow" chant. Unfortunately for Barton, Sabu used this distraction to Barton, to win the match with a quick roll up, suprising Barton. Snow, then grabbed the mic from Joe Pedicino....

Overall: 77

Crowd: 90

Match: 79

Al Snow

"..You know, Barton...With all this crap that's been going on...I haven't really had the time to vent...the time to tell it like it is...We had something. We had a team! The secret agents! And you threw it all away!! Hell, we didn't have to be the secret agents! We could've just been Snow and Barton! We had a real team!! The Perfect combination, of my Martial Arts Background! Your Boxing background!! But, NO!! You had to turn on me! Why? For money!! For who? For Dibiase? For Johnny Ace? For Jim Cornette!! For the WWF suits like Antonio Inoki!! For PRIDE? This weekend---BARTON...The suits aren't going to help you! All the little boys that are pushing you in the back--they won't be able to help you!! Bring all that you learned in amateur boxing. But remember--The stuff I do in the ring--ISN'T AMATEUR...This weekend...IT....WILL...SNOW!!!!!" 84%

-ADVERTS-

- Hitman and The Kid Challenge The Factions' Leaders -

Coming out of the break, Sting came to the ring to quite a nice pop. He started talking about entering the "Quite possibly, most dangerous match in WWF History". He then started talking about the meaning of Shangril-a, and did that same sentence--"And, when I win!!! For the first time, since--" before being interupted by The Hitman's music. Hitman came out to quite the reaction. Sting looked a little upset, but Bret came out, as "happy" as ever. He held up a piece of paper saying that he got a match signed that he's been waiting all month for. He announced that he secured a match with The Kid, against, the leaders of the two groups that's been causing problems in the WWF lately--PRIDE and the Dark Carnival;

"That's right!! Tonight! Shawn Waltman and I face--RINGMASTER JIM NEIDHART & James E. Cornette. Sting played along with the crowd in being "suprised and happy" at this announcement, suppressing any thought of him turning on Bret. Though, if they're going to do it, this would've been a great time. The two then waisted everyone's time and played to the crowd for entirely too loud. They even took turns doing each other's taunts. How cute. 81%

--ADVERTS--

- The Power Of The Picture -

Hiroyoshi Tenzan d. Barry Horowitz - GWF Heavyweight Title

Antonio Inoki & James Cornette accompanied Tenzan to the ring, Inoki brought a still shot picture of Steve Corino dressed up in the mock Tenzan costume, from earlier on RAW--and kept showing it to Tenzan to fire him up. And, it worked. Great way, again, to push a guy, that can't talk, due to the language barrier. Tenzan was really nailing Horowitz hard with those mongolian chops. By the 5th minute of the match, Horowitz's chest was sick red from Tenzan's chest chops. Tenzan also nailed Horowitz with one of the best German Suplex's I've seen in a while. Tenzan ended the match at 7:11 with a brainbuster off the top rop. Heenan was going on about how Tenzan could win the match with "anything" next week at Shangril-a;

Heenan" Whatta champion, Styles!! Whatta champion!! This man - I am predicting will win the WWF Unified Championship!! He's got the advantage! He'll get you with anything! Corino? He has the Dusty Rhodes Elbow! And the figure four! But what other moves does he specialise in? Bret Hart? He's got the Sharpshooter? But what other moves does he specialise in!? He may be the excellence of execution--but he can only execute with one wire!! Tenzan!!? I've seen him end matches with that TTD inverted Piledriver! That elevated Boston Crab! The German Suplex!! The Dragon Suplex!! The Somoan Drop, another one of his specialities! The Moonsault! And of course, his patented top rope heabutt!! This is my pick, right here!!"

Overall: 70

Crowd: 85

Match: 65

-ADVERTS-

- There's Only One Way Into Hell -

Sting d. The Great Kabuki

Sting squashed Kabuki here after Kabuki domintated maybe the first 2 minutes. After the match, Lee The Undertaker came out of the curtains with Ringmaster Jim Neidhart, and said...

"Sting....Remember....the Only way into the Pits of Hell...ISSSS DOWNNNNNNNNNN....Rest. In. Peace."

They cut to adverts with a great close up of Sting's worrysome face.

Overall: 67

Crowd: 79

Match: 69

-ADVERTS-

- "6 More Days" -

Bret 'Hitman' Hart, Owen Hart, 'Highlight Kid' Shawn Waltman d. Ringmaster Jim Neidhart, James E. Cornette, & Carl P. Oulette

This match was basically the 'send the fans home, happy before big Pay Per View' match. Soem funny stuff with Cornette...between him and Waltman particularily. Oulette and Owen had a pretty ok exchange. Neidhart - Bret going at it got the biggest pop of the night, as the announcers built this as former best friends/tag team partners. Match came to a close when Waltman nailed Neidhart with the Lightning Kick for the cover. After the match, Owen & Bret had Oulette & Cornette in the sharpshooters to some nice pops. Bret then took the mic and did a little speech for his Canadian fans.

Bret" 6 More Days!! 6 more days until all becomes right in the WWF!!! 6 more days, until I unify the WWF Title in the Main Event!! 6 more days, until one of these two men win the coveted WWF Intercontinental Champion from that clown! 6 more days, until TEAM CAPD, being lead by the Sandman, destroys the allied forces of PRIDE & The Dark Carnival!! 6 more days until Sting--rids the WWF of that gothic freak, Lee The Undertaker!! 6 More days until Al Snow puts Mike Barton back in his place!! 6 more days, until Sabu establishing himself as the true daredevil of the WWF!! 6 More Days, until the WWF, goes into the next era--1998--THE RIGHT WAY!!!"

This got a huge reaction from the crowd. The ancipation for the Pay Per View showed, as RAW went off the air with the crowd chanting "Six More Days!"

Overall: 71

Crowd: 86

Match: 65

Bret Hart was sluggish and didn't put much effort in.

Commentary Aftermath

Heenan" My god, listen to this crowd, Joey!! I haven't heard this chant, since I was counting down the time out of my GCG contract!!"

Styles" Fans at home...Words cannot adequatley describe the atmosphere that we are in, right now, here in Toronto, Canada. So, I'll just leave you with this...."

The chant of "6 More Days" is heard, along with several camera shots of fans chanting, as WWF RAW goes off the air..."

Show Quality: 73%

TV Rating: 8.00

Shangril-a Weekend! WWF Worldwide Preview

--The (Final?) Shaggy Show!!!!

--Don Frye!!!

--Shawn Waltman!!

--The Crimson Twins!!!

--The Ebony Expierence!!

--And More of your favourite WWF Superstars!!

[ChuBalso]

Shangril-a Weekend is Here!!Series '97...

November 29rd, 1997

WWF Worldwide Saturday Nights-

Channel: FOX

Venue: The Quebec Lowe -- Quebec, Canada

Announcing Team: Sean Mooney & Jerry 'The King' Lawler

Attendance: 12039

In-Ring Announcer: Joe Pedicino

Referee Team: Bill Alfonso, Mike Chioda, Shane McMahon, Earl Hebner, Charles Robinson, Jim Mollineaux, John Finnegan

By

Dave Schmeltzer

- The Shaggy Show -

Worldwide on 11/29 was basically just a recap of the strong RAW from earlier in the week. Shaggy 2Dope opened the show from the set of his Shaggy show deal. Shaggy announced that he has appointed Bill Alfonso as the referee for his match, tommorow night at Shangril-a. It was kinda funny that most of the fans hardly paying attention to him, instead, they were mostly reacting to Neidhart going nuts, laughing and shouting in the background. 87%

-ADVERTS-

The Wild Outlaws (Kendall Whindam & Bobby Duncum Jr.) d. Dutch Mantell & The Iron Sheik

Just horrible. Loud 'boring' chants. Kendall tried with some strong shots to Mantell...but it was just bad. Duncum won with the lariat on Mantell at 8:33.

Overall: 48

Crowd: 47

Match: 49

The Iron Shiek lost overness from this match. Dutch Mantell lost overness from this match. Kendall Windham gained overness from this match. Bobby Duncum Jr. gained overness from this match.

- Clyde Vasseaur Shows what Frye is Capable of -

After the match they showed highlights from RAW of Diamond's 'tune up' match. Bischoff was then joined with Clyde Vasseur, Don Frye's agent. He asked if that was a good tune up match for Diamond. Frye then directed Bischoff to a nearby TV/VCR combination. He had already cued up a highlight video of Don Frye's past shoot matches, since they are fought with no rules. It showed Frye, 1)Winning two matches with a chokehold, 2)Winning two matches with his triangle arm and leg lock, 3)and winning 4 more matches with 4 different submission holds--one being a simple armbar with intense pressure. Clyde then smiled at Bischoff and said;

"Now, after seeing that--you tell me if you think Diamond's fully prepared."

Vasseur walked off laughing....62%

Clyde Vasseur gained overness from this segment.

-ADVERTS-

- The Ebony Experience Challenge The Space Croppers -

Coming out of the break they show Jesse Ventura standing outside the "Wrestler's Lounge", backstage. After hearing laughter he goes in to find the Ebony Experience, along with Lady Jacqueline & D'lo Brown, looking at a tape from last month where The Space Croppers freaked out at their own reflections from their mirrors. They are both drinking glasses that apparently have wine...since I guess that's all they drink.

Booker T (Whilst laughing) " Can ya'll believe that those suckas ain't neva seen no mirror before!! Hahahah!!"

Stevie Ray (He stops laughing, gets up, walks around, sees his reflection in Jacqueline's mirror and pretends to be scared) " Ahhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There's two of me!! Hahaha!!!"

The Ebony Experience break into laughter, until Devon Storm "storms" into the lounge....

Storm (Shouting)" You think you're funny!!! Well how about you keep laughing all the way to the ring! And we'll make sure that you won't be able to compete tommorow night for the Tag Team Gold! Arrrrgggghhhhhhhhh!!!!"

Storm, "storms" off into the corridor, leaving the Ebony Experience sitting still, in shock. 68%

Booker T gained overness from this segment. Stevie Ray gained overness from this segment. Devon Storm gained overness from this segment.

The Crimson Twins (Xamot & Tamox) d. Mike Shaw & Kamala

Something tells me that the WWF wanted to be very careful not to hurt anyone before Shangril-A. From what I understand, Mike Shaw was brought in as part of a purchase that the WWF recently made of a small promotion from out in Florida. I'm sure they'll all be released in days, after they all get try-outs. The twins looked good here...and oddly enough--carried this match to barely bearable. Well actually the match wasn't too bearable, but the crowd only came alive when the Twins performed double teams moves virtually out of nowhere on several occasions. They nailed Shaw with the Crimson Cold Wave at 8:33.

Overall: 46

Crowd: 45

Match: 47

- Steve "The Hitman" Corino? -

After RAW highlights of Steve Corino coming out dressed up as Tenzan were shown, Bret Hart's music played to a huge pop. But what followed was NOT Bret. Instead it was Corino, wearing pink shades, pink tights, and a pink shirt with a heart on it, that read "I love Harts" This got the crowd heated. However, seconds after Corino emerged from the curtain, Bret charged out of the back leveling Corino from behind. The two scuffled right there on the ramp for a few minutes before officials poured out of the back. Bret seemed especially intense. There are rumours going around that Bret came out a bit sooner than he was supposed to, as Corino was way to clearly heard on TV, screaming to Dillon--one of the officials--"Five minutes!? That wasn't five #@!&* minutes!! That was like five *(!@$ seconds!! What the hell was that!?"

Bret was quickly ushered to the back, as was Corino. The live crowd was able to deduce that something didn't go according to plan...

85%

-ADVERTS-

- Furnas & Lafon Scout their competition -

The Space Croppers d. Ebony Experience

The crowd wasn't really much into this match, as there was a small buzz going on about what just transpired. Furnas & Lafon stood on the ramp watching the match holding their Tag Titles on their shoulder. Mooney put them over as being 'serious' champions, 'scouting' their competition. This made it 'impossible' for Ebony to continue, causing them to fall to the Asteriod Blast at 9:22. A loss here leads me to think that they would get it back tommorow night. Then again, who am I to say?

Overall: 69

Crowd: 58

Match: 80

- Waltman's Chance At Gold -

What followed next was a really good narrative peice...by Waltman himself, which seems was worked on during the week. It showed Waltman walking around Canada, being recongnised, and being wished good luck, by some fans, as he went goes into the I-C Title match. He put over Owen Hart heavily calling him the man who deserves the title the most. He then ended the segment saying;

"...but I'm the one, who's going to fight the Hardest!! Oulette!! Owen!! Shaggy!! Prepare for a series of Highlights! Brought to you by The Highlight Kid! Shawn Waltman!! Your next WWF Intercontinental Champion!!" 87%

-ADVERTS-

- Oulette helps the Intercontinental Champion against the Kid -

Ringmaster Jim Neidhart & Shaggy 2Dope d. The Sandman & The Highlight Kid Shawn Watlman

Good match with alot of crowd heat. Waltman got a nice pop after his little taped promo. Match came to a close when Oulette hit the ring, threw brass knux in the ring to Shaggy and allowed him to use it on Waltman. Neidhart took out Sandman as heel ref, Bill Alfonso made the three count. The Sandman was described as not having 100% eyesight yet--but Mooney added that he'll be fully healed by tommorow night.

Overall: 80

Crowd: 86

Match: 67

-ADVERTS-

- The Final Sacrifice Will Be.... -

Bret Hart d. Carl Oulette

Well, this was Bret's revenge match I guess. Bret had a shiner on his eye that he probably got from his scuffle with Corino. It was hard to tell, on TV, whether it was make-up or legit. Hart won in 11:22 of a good match, with the Sharpshooter. Hart celebrated for a while and returned to the back. After his music was done, Neidhart came out with the Undertaker. Undertaker said some words before WorldWide went off the air....

Lee The Undertaker" One Day More. The Ultimate Sacrifice will be made...And he who falls into the Hell's Pit...WILL BE THAT SACRIFICE. And he who is that sacrifice...WILL....NOT....SURVIVE....."

Overall: 85

Crowd: 89

Match: 80

Bret Hart was sluggish and didn't put much effort in.

With that, they cut to a shot of Mooney and Lawler at their broadcast table...who spoke very seriously about Survivor Series, over a strong "One Day More" chant. Amazing. Amazing buildup.....

Commentary Aftermatch

Mooney"...Well, Lawler...this is it. This is it. Listen to the crowd. 24 hours until, Survivor Series '97. Shangril-A."

Lawler" Ya know, Mooney, all kidding aside. This is going to be an amazing show on all ends. I mean look at the calibre of matches. Sabu against Hayabusa? Al Snow against Mike Barton. The Main Event!! Corino-Tenzan-Hart: Three of the best wrestlers in our sport today."

Mooney" That's right, Jerry. There's alot of intensity going on in the back. The Wrestler's know that this could be the most important Pay Per View, in their careers."

Lawler (Lawler's looking at a peice of paper) " Oh, sorry, I'm just looking at WCW's Dusty November Pay Per View main event. Sean Michaels vs. Scott Haul vs. The Berzerker vs. The Great Muta. That looks like a fun match--but didn't we fire 3 of those four guys like years ago? Hahaha!!"

Mooney" And it may not be pretty, either, Jerry. We've got that Hell's Pit match. Only the Undertaker knows what it really is!! And could that be when we find out who is the Ultimate Sacrifice?"

Lawler" Well, Lee did say that the one who falls into the pit will be the Ultimate Sacrifice! But I would still watch your step if I were you, Mooney!! Beware of any pits!!"

Mooney" It's all about Survival, Folks!! It's the WWF Survivor Series '97!! From the PQ Molson Centre Feel free to check over at WWF.com for the official preview! Remember folks, there's a contest going on there I believe gets a winner front row tickets to Shangril-A!! Who knows!! Maybe that'll make you apart of the biggest Pay Per View in the WWF's History!! Shangril-a...nearly a year in the making!! WHO WILL SURVIVE!!!!?"

Lawler" I hope you get sacrificed."

WWF Worldwide ended with a carefully spliced soundbite from what sounded like an Insane Clown Posse song...

"...This is all because of you...WHAT YOU GOT YOURSELF INTO..."

Show Quality: 65%

TV Rating: 7.57

if you haven't, feel free to post your predictions, thoughts, concerns, queries, hopes, etc!

[ChuBalso]

Survivor Series '97:Shangril-a

PART I of 3.

Part II will be updated tommorow, or the next. So if you'd like to make predictions, you may.

Montreal - PQ Molson Centre - Backstage

1pm

There was already a line forming outside the PQ Molson Centre, practically 6 hours before the event. The ring was already set up so that the wrestlers could practiced planned spots. Sabu and Hayabusa were going over some things, as Bret Hart walked around the back with his wife, son, and brother, Bruce Hart, who's still doing his backyard promotion.

Bret runs into to Doug Gilbert.

Hart

" Doug, how's it going man. [To his son] This is the Dark Patriot, Dallas. Except he doesn't have that nasty mask on."

They both laugh. Gilbert gets serious.

Gilbert

" Hey, Bret, just wanted to say so long man. The WWF gave me an option to go, and I'm going to take it."

Hart

" Really, Why?"

Gilbert

" C'mon...you know how it is, Bret. Ever since Inoki got booking power, everything's changed. I got nothing since that program between you and I. That was the best angle of the fuckin' year. And THIS is how they repay me? I become a jobber?"

Hart

" I hear ya man. Well, good luck man. Yea, it's been bullshit. Corino gets whatever he wants. Cornette doesn't care. He's involved in the whole PRIDE thing. And PRIDE's got that almighty Inoki blessing. I think I've had enough, too."

There's an awkward pause, as this conversation has suddenly turned from being about Gilbert to being about Bret.

Gilbert

" Yea, man..well--they're not renewing New Jack's contract. Tonight's his last match. They're letting go Tammy, Backlund--man, they're making alot of changes. What about you? Whattaya gonna do?"

Bret Hart

" Wha..what?"

There is another pause. It's clear that Gilbert said something that wasn't expected.

Gilbert

"...Uhhhmm---"

Bret

" Doug, what's going on? I know you're really close with Bruce (Pritchard). What? Are there plans that I don't know about."

Gilbert quickly shakes Bret hand and begins to go on his way.

Gilbert

" Oh, I don't know. You'll have to ask Bruce. Sometimes he just talks out of his ass. (*An Akward forced laugh*)Well, I gotta alot of people to say goodbye to. Take care, Bret."

Hart and Gilbert shake hands. Bret looks around, uncertain. He see's Shane McMahon talking to Ric Flair in the distance...but decides on not talking to anyone else until his promised meeting with the head bookers, before the show...

====================================================

====================================================

====================================================

Montreal - PQ Molson Centre - Backstage

4pm

Bret is in his dressing room with brothers Owen & Bruce, he's talking to his wife...

Bret Hart

"...I ran into Dougie, earlier..."

Bret's Wife

" Oh yea? How's he doing?"

Bret

" He's getting released. He's taking the option...but then...he asked me what I was going to do...as if I were going somewhere."

Bret's Wife

" Oh, what did you say?"

Bret

" I had no idea what he was fucking talking about. But, I'm tired of being in the fucking dark. I think I've enough of this shit."

Bret goes over Owen and Bruce...

Bret Hart

" Yo, Owen. I think there's only going to be one Hart in the WWF from now on."

Owen & Bruce look at each other confused, then back to Bret.

Owen

" What...what are you talking about?"

Bret

" Remember that shit I was telling you about last month? It's continuing. And it's getting worse. Today, I talk to Dougie...and you know how he feels about the whole thing---so he says that he's taken an option that McMahon or someone gave him to leave. He then asked me 'what I was going to do'? I'm tired of being in the dark like this. I think I'm going to ask for a release."

There's a long pause as Owen, Bruce, and Bret's wife take this in.

Owen

"Bret...do what you have to do. I know how you feel. I'm not too happy either. But Dillon, Russo, Inoki, they've done alot of good things. I mean, fucking John Nord is a Main Eventer in WCW thanks to those guys. Tenzan--Getting him over was once thought of to be an impossibility. But they did it. And look at Steve Cori---"

There is a long pause. Owen breaks the silence.

Owen

" What about the Belt? I've asked Vince to give me the win in my home country. He's probably going to want you to drop the belt."

Bret Hart

" I'll think of something. Maybe I can talk Dillon into at least giving me a farewell tommorow in Charlotte, on RAW. I dunno."

Their serious conversation was interuppted by a laughing Bill Alfonso and Lance Storm. Apparently someone ribbed GWF Wrestler Mikey Whipwreck by putting dog shit inside of his shoes....

====================================================

====================================================

====================================================

Montreal - PQ Molson Centre - Backstage

6:45pm

The backstage area was filled with good karma. Those who wanted to leave, Bob Backlund, Doug Gilbert/Dark Patriot, and Tammy Sytch, (Due to lack of storylines) got word that WWF would be granting them their release if wanted. New Jack also got word that his contract would not be renewed--but Russo assured him that he'll help him get a job in 21st Century Wrestling, where his good friend Jeff Jarrett has alot of pull.

Hart, while saying goodbye to Backlund, was approached by Vince McMahon. McMahon was accompanied by his top guys. Side by Side with McMahon were, Antonio Inoki & JJ Dillon, and Shane McMahon. Vince Russo, Joey Styles, and Mike Rotunda were also in the group, all forming a circle with Bret.

Vince McMahon

" Did Bruce (Pritchard), Gerry, (Brisco) or Pat, (Patterson) talk to you yet?"

Bret

" No...No, I haven't seen them all day. I did talk to Doug, though. He mentioned something about talking to Bruce, though. What's going on?"

McMahon nods, whilst looking around.

McMahon

" Listen...I wanna offer you a release. You're obviously not very happy here. I've been reading the dirt sheets, the rumour sites--You're thinking of taking a break from wrestling?"

Bret looks down to the ground. He knows that he's about to make a decision that will greatly affect his wrestling career. But at the same time, he realises that this is exactly what he wanted....

Vince McMahon

" Remember, Bret. It's an option. You don't have to do it. There's still a spot for you, here."

Bret Hart

" Ya know, Vince. Maybe a break from wrestling is exactly what I need. Thank you. (After a slight pause, and shaking Vince's hand) But what happens tonight? I mean, I don't wanna loose the title here in Montreal. That won't do anything for my image..."

The officials look at each other with a face of concern.

Vince McMahon

" Well...what can we do? If tonight is to be your last match, do you really think it's a good idea to put a brand new title on a man that's going to be leaving?"

Bret

" Well..tonight necessarily doesn't have to be my last match. I could somehow leave here with the belt, then maybe forfeit it, or loose it tommorow night in Charlotte. So then at least I can walk up with my head it high."

Vince appears to be thinking about it. Inoki leans over and says something in McMahon's ear. McMahon nods.

McMahon

" Lets talk about it in my office. Meet me there in 15 min...."

With that, McMahon and the rest of the officials walk toward McMahon's office. Paul Levesque aka Hunter McMahon Helmsley, who was off to the side talking with Bret's wife, approaches Bret, to ask him what he just discussed with the big suits of the WWF.

====================================================

====================================================

====================================================

Montreal - PQ Molson Centre - Vince McMahon's Office

7:15pm

With just about 45 minutes to the event, the crowd was able to be heard from inside the lockeroom. The nonstagliac singing of "Olay", along with the fun chants of 'Hogan' & 'Warrior', were heard from the crowd, anticipating the start to the show, as Bret Hart sat in Vince's Office, with Shane McMahon, JJ Dillon, Vince Russo, and Antonio Inoki.

Vince McMahon

" Ok..Bret. Now here's the problem. Here's the thing that stands between you and me. Dusty Rhodes. I grant you your release tonight. Technically, tommorow, you're not under contract. So what's to stopping good ol' Dusty Rhode's from calling you up tommorow morning and saying; (Vince makes a phone sign with his fingers, and starts doing his Dusty Rhodes Impersonation) 'Heyyy Big Ol' Bret!! It's the American Dream, Daddy!! How 'about you take that nice new Unified WWF Title, you c'mon on here on my show WCW Nitro, and you put that WWF Title in the garbage, daddy!!' "

Dillon, Russo, and Shane were laughing. Inoki remained serious. As did Bret.

Bret Hart

" No! My idea was to somehow walk out with the title...maybe not even unify it until tommorow. After a run-in deal or something? Then tommorow, I could forfeit the belt...or loose it. Either way, I leave Canada with my held up high."

There is a huge sigh from McMahon. Inoki says something in McMahon's ear again, then starts talking. Inoki started talking, reminiscent of his speeches that he gave during his time in politics.

Inoki

" Ok, here is the problem. When I came to this company, people would laugh at the WWF Title. Now it has prestige. Now it has honour. And your idea of a 'run-in' would just ruin the great build up for this match. You have to think about the Belt. The belts that we are unifying."

Bret

" Hey, I'm thinking about the Belt, Ok! But I'm also thinking about ME!! I'm the one that was here for his whole career! I'm the one that jobbed to the Mountie! To Ric Flair! To The Berzerker! To The Underaker--WHEN ASKED! Ok? Now I want something back. Now that I'm taking a break from the sport...why can't I just get this bit of honour?"

There is silence. Inoki throws his hands in the air, as if to say "I give up". Dillon chimes in, pointing at Bret, almost shouting his voice by the time he's done.

Dillon

" You know something, Bret. There's something that you dont' understand! And it's called Tradition! If you leave the company, you don't always win your last match! Look at Lawler! His final match, he lost to his son? Why? He wasn't thinking about himself! He was thinking about the sport! The business! You talk about what you gave us? Well what about what we gave you? Nearly a year of your Canadian Foundation stuff! Another two years of Bret Hart on top! Against Hogan! The Berzerker! Flair! And now it's time to go, and you can't lay down for 3 seconds? Just because we're in 'Canada'?"

Dillon's face is almost red.

Bret Hart

"Well...I didn't say I had to win...I said maybe we can do a run-in. Have Sting or someone interfere, when I'm in there with the final man. I win by DQ. Everyone's thinking overnight...wow 'Sting-Bret'--'Sting-Bret' what's going to happen. Sting beats me tommorow, I shake his hand, and there ya go. Great ratings for tommorow night."

Dillon

" 'Sting'? Sting? Is fucking Sting in the fucking Main Event!!? NO!! It's a 3 way dance between three men, who went a long way to get there!! HIROYOSHI TENZAN!! STEVE CORINO!! AND BRET HART!! Sting is in the Hell's pit match!! Hellooooooo!! Anyone home!!! Can't you stop thinking about Bret for two seconds! McMahon, I can't do my job correctly if the egos of some of the wrestlers start drawing there own pictures of what should happen! You know what--Russo, Inoki, McMahon--you guys talk to him! You figure it out! You wanna do the Sting run-in, then FINE! Hey, (Sarcastically), lets get Alfonso, the heel referee in there! And lets really make the WWF Unified title an embarrassment! Let's have Alfonso clutch his knee and start yelling 'MY EYES!!!', during the single most important Title match in the company's history!! DO WHATEVER YOU WANT!! When you're done, let me know what you decided. I'LL BE IN MY OFFICE!!!"

With that, Dillon shoots out of McMahon's office. Inoki, shakes his head, and follows suit, leaving Russo and McMahon alone with the Hitman. McMahon, who seems to have an idea yells at Inoki before he's out the door.

McMahon

" Inoki! Do me a favour, and send Alfonso to my office. (To Bret) I like the heel ref idea. Bret, don't worry. We'll find a way to do this."

Bret

" Look for Mikey's shit. Literally....I think Alfonso and Storm ribbed him. Alfonso should be there."

Inoki nods whilst closing the door behind him...

[Hewey]

Good shows, Shangril-a is gonna be something awesome. I'm looking forward to reading it. I don't know what will happen to Bret, Maybe he'll get screwed? But I doubt it, My pick is Bret retaining the title, And losing it the next night to Corino or someone. Can't wait for the Survivor Series :thumbsup:

[Stevie Idol]

And here goes one of the best angles done in a diary. Hurry and post the PPV.

[ChuBalso]

SHANGRIL-A

Venue: The PQ Molson Centre - Montreal Canada

Announcing Team: Joey Styles & Jesse 'The Body' Ventura

Attendance: 20665

In-Ring Announcer: Joe Pedicino

Referee Team: Bill Alfonso, Mike Chioda, Shane McMahon, Earl Hebner, Charles Robinson, Dave Hebner, Joey Marella, Billy Silvermann, Jim Mollineaux, John Finnegan

By

Dave Schmeltzer

The 1997 Survivor Series, entitled "Shangril-a", proved to live up to the hype that it produced. Not only was this one of the best Pay Per Views in terms of crowd heat and excitement, but the in ring action was well above par. The countdown to Survivor Series '97, which started since the beginning of the year, turned out to be the official countdown of the return of, still, one of the most over men in the company, Ric Flair.

As for the sacrifices. I believe there were two. One for the fans. And one for the insiders, though that part isn't fully confirmed yet.

Right before the Pay Per View started, Eric Bischoff-backstage-asked Vince McMahon, indentified for the very first time on camera as 'The CEO Of The World Wrestling Federation', who was going to win the Unified World Title Match. Vince, who was accompanied by JJ Dillon and the unamed Vince Russo, simply replied;

"I don't know..."

Joey Styles and Jesse 'The Body' Ventura opened up Survivor Series from their broadcast post, which was on a stage right above the first section of fan seating, reminsent of the old Eastern Championship Wrestling broadcasts. I guess this is Joey Styles' influence as a senior booker, now. Styles & Ventura did a great job pushing the importance of this year's Survivor Series, and questioned what the final sacrifice would be. As Ebony Experience's music played, Styles reminded the home viewers that this Pay Per View, unlike the previous Pay Per Veiws had a MA-17 rating. This is where I wondered what they had planned--specifically, for that Hell's Pit Match....

Styles" Hello everyone, I'm Joey Styles, joined here with, Jesse 'The Body' Ventura, and Jesse, would you listen to this crowd! I have never experienced anything like it!!"

Ventura" Styles, I've seen Mr. T take on Rowdy Piper! I've seen Hulk Hogan bodyslam Andre The Giant! I've seen the Ultimate Warrior and Hulk Hogan Collide! Hell, I even watched the clash between The Mountie and Ric Flair, at Arsenal II!! But tonight is going to overshawdow all of those memories! History's going to be made Styles!!"

*Ebony Experience's music starts to play*

Styles (Laughing) " Hey, Jesse!! The fans are booing? I guess they finally realised you were here!"

Ventura" Don't you start, four eyes!"

1. The Ebony Experience (Booker T [51]& Stevie Ray[48]) defeated Furnas & Lafon (Doug Furnas [57] & Phil Lafon [62]) in 12:55 to win the WWF Tag Team Titles

Referee: Billy Silvermann

Not only was this a strong opening bout. But it actually had some crowd heat--something that's been all too foreign to tag team bouts during the recent months. Stevie Ray started off with Furnas, first. The two traded off a few shoulder block spots for the first few minutes of the match. Furnas eventually ended up suprising Ray with a hip toss, then wearing him down with a lenghtly sleeper hold. D'lo Brown & Lady Jacqueline were on the outside mouthing off with fans while this was going on--I guess to keep the fans awake. Furnas had a few near falls before tagging out to Lafon. Lafon worked with Ray for a while, but the match really picked up when he was in with Booker. The two had some nice series of spots, including Lafon catching Booker T's leg, from an attempted Axe Kick, sweeping him, then teasing submission from a half boston crab. The crowd actually popped for Lafon's counter. At 9:33, a funny little spot occured when Lady Jacqueline was wondering around ringside, a bit to close to Lafon when he was on the outside. He ended up chasing her around the ring, throught the ring, and up the ramp. This is where the ending occured. Referee Bill Silvermann, because--well, he's an idiot--was looking outside up the ramp by the ramp watching the antics between Lafon & Jacqueline. While he was preoccupied--Ray through Furnas into the ropes, but D'lo Brown yanked the top rope down causing Furnas to tumble over the top and onto the ring floor. Brown then picked up Furnas and nailed him with, a moved called "The Low Down", (as described by Ventura, on commentary) right outside the ring. Crowd reacted big to this. Styles emphasized that the move had to hure more, being on the outside. With that, Brown quickly rolled Furnas back in there ring, where Ebony Experience quickly applied the double slapjack. Stevie Ray, the illegal man yanked Silvermann away from watching Lafon chase Jacqueline up the ramp, so that he could make the count. Lafon finally saw this, and started to run back to the ring. But by the time he was back, it was too late. Silvermann counted the three, leading to a suprise Title Switch, as the Ebony Experience win the Tag Team Titles in 12:55 of a strong match. All four heels went nuts in celebrating as Lafon attended to his fallen partner. Definately a step up for both teams.

Overall: 69**1/3

Crowd: 60

Match: 78

Stevie Ray gained overness from this match. Booker T gained overness from this match.

Commentary Aftermath

Styles" Ebony Experience are the new WWF Tag Team Champions!! What a win!!"

Ventura" And hey, they deserve it!! You've got Phil Lafon chasing Lady Jacqueline all over the place instead of thinking about the match at hand--good job to the Ebony Experience!! They deserve the win!"

Styles" Well what about their competition!! The Crimson Twins! TRASH! The Warriors Of Doom!? The Pitbulls? The Space Croppers!?!"

Ventura (As soon as Styles mentions the Crimson Twins, their ringmusic starts to play. It's a rock version of Beethoven's 5th) " Well, two of those teams that you mentioned are in the next match!! Surival is the name of the game, Styles!! The Allied Forces!! Against the Kapt!"

Styles" The Kapt?"

Ventura" Styles!! The C...A...P....D!! It's the Body's special abbreviation!! Get with it!!"

2. The Allied Forces (The Ringmaster Jim Neidhart [86], Damien Demento [69], Tomax [42] & Xamot[48] defeated The CAPD (The Sandman [98], Barry Horowitz [97], Horace Hogan [52] & The Renegade Warrior [64])

Referee: Joey Marella

Sandman's entrance took nearly 5 minutes alone. He got a huge reaction coming out, and announced by Joe Pedicino as having "100% eye site". Ventura had a funny comment about that saying; Ventura" Does that mean that now 100% of the beer that he pours into his mouth will actually go into his mouth and not all over the floor, Styles!?" Sandman actually walked through the crowd and near the broadcast area to drink a beer amongst WWF Officials--specifically a few of the tech guys, Steve Zombie, and, 56 year old production assistant, Davey Flanders. Horowitz got the second biggest pop of his team...ODDLY. It's so strange. Horowitz can loose match after match...but still never loose a hint of popularity with the fans. His SummerSlam deal with Sting and The Undertaker really helped his popularity alot. Also, Damien Demento replaced Papa Shango here, for no announced reason. Actually, Papa Shango hasn't been on TV in about 3 weeks now that I think about it. He lost to Kamala, and that's it. I'm hearing that he let some hair grow and he's got a small mustache now, which can't be good for his Papa Shango character. Maybe his removal was his punishment--so I thought. Anyway the match wasn't too bad, having pretty good heat from the Canadian crowd. First elimination came at 4:33, when The Crimson Twins nailed Barry Horowitz with the Crimson Cold Wave. After Horowitz was eliminated, The Renegade Warrior ran in and did a better version of the Ultimate Warrior than Hellwig does; taking out the Crimson Twins, then Ringmaster then finally, Demento. Warrior started to jog in place to a hot crowd, as Sandman popped open a beer on the outside. Ventura alway has the funny comments at the Pay Per View;

Ventura"Is the Sandman Drinking? Is the Sandman Drinking on The Job? Now wait a minute! Can I just pop open a beer right now, Styles? NOOOO!! And neither should the Sandman!!" The second elimination came 2 minutes later when Hogan, who got the upperhand after a series of power struggles with Neidhart, nailed the Mighty Legdrop, on the manager for the victory. Horace Hogan played to the crowd here, until he was blindsided by Demento. Demento worked with Hogan for a while, which was way below elegant, before Hogan got a hot tag to the Sandman. Sandman came in a cracked his cane over the head of Demento to a huge pop. The Crimson Twins ran in, and each got met with cane shots to the head, getting huge pops from the crowd. Sandman stood in place for a while, as the crowd broke into a huge "Sandman" chant. Unfortunately, these actions made the Sandman the next elimination via disqualification, making this now the Warriors Of Doom against Demento and The Crimson Twins. Marella instantly disqualified Sandman, causing Marella to quickly become the only referee that gets booes--besides Alfonso, of course. The Warriors went on a rampage for the next few minutes having their way with both the Crimson Twins and Demento. However, The next elimination came when Hogan missed his 'Mighty Legdrop' on Demento. Demento followed with his inner voices Iron Claw. Hogan submitted after being in the hold for like 45 seconds too long to stay awake. The Warrior was now against three people: The Twins & Demento. But Demento was taken care of within minutes. After Hogan's elimination Warrior jumped in the ring and nailed Demento with three running clotheslines. He then got him with 2 shoulder blocks coming off the ropes, for a couple of near falls. Finally, with a "Warrior" chant going on, Warrior got Demento with the gorilla press and slam for the next elimination: Making it now, The Renegade Warrior vs. The Crimson Twins. The underlying story here, was the ability of the Warrior to last with the Twins. Styles was pushing the Warrior really hard, but emphasized that he wasn't witi his tag partner. At 12:14, Warrior, who seemed to be incredibily fatigued, from taking on both twins, began setting up Tomax for a superplex. Warrior actually slipped off the turnbuckle, selling his fatigue. He climbed back up again--at this time, Xamot began fighting back. Warrior, nevertheless, starting setting up for the superplex anyway, but Tamox resisted once again, and started to set up a suplex of his own--teasing a superplex from the top turnbuckle to the outside of the ring. But instead, Tamox, who had all of this time of somewhat of a respite, came off the ropes with a varied version of what would be a sloppy tope rope version of a Kobashi Orange Crush. Then, as if he knew what his brother was going to do, Xamot came off of the other turnbuckle, a half second later, with a legdrop on the Warrior for the cover and the victory. Joey Styles let out one of his patented Oh My Gawd's! for that move combination--a varied version of the Crimson Cold Wave. The Crimson Twins are the survivors. The Rock version of Beethoven's 5th played as The Crimson Twins had their hands raised by James Cornette.

Overall: 66**1/4

Crowd: 73

Match: 50

Commentary Aftermath

Styles" Oh My GaWD!! Did you see that move!! What a move!! They seem to 'know' each other incredibly well!"

Ventura" And that's why they're one of the best tag teams in the WWF today!! Imported from Germany! Raised in England! And wreaking havoc here in the World Wrestling Federation!! I love it! I think we're going to see alot more of these guys, Styles!! And I think that all of the tag teams in the WWF, including the current Tag Team Champions--Ebony Experience--should take notice!"

Styles (Holding his ear peice) " I'm being told...WHAT!!!!?"

------------------------------------------

The Undertaker is seen walking off. The camera pans down, showing the Dark Patriot, laid out, on the ground.

------------------------------------------

3. Don Frye [58] defeated Simon Diamond [66] in 9:57 of a No Rules Match

Referee: Shane McMahon

Frye got a nice pop coming out. Diamond got a very strong heel reaction, and was sporting a new robe that read, accross the back, "Simon Didn't Say!" Match started off with Simon doing his best to avoid getting into any submission holds at the hands of Frye. To 'stall', Diamond grabbed the microphone and said that he didn't want Frye's agent, Clyde Vasseaur, at ringside. Of course McMahon the referee reminded him that there were no rules of the match, and that he was only there to raise the hand of the winner. Diamond did the running around spot before stomping on Frye when he rolled in after him. Daimond had the upperhand until 6:33 when he went for an ankle lock. Frye, while in the hold, somehow sweeped Diamond with his free leg and locked Diamond into a variation of WCW's Chris Benoit's crippler crossface hold. Diamond battled over to the ropes, in about a 3 minute spot, forcing Frye to release the hold. I guess there were some rules, afterall. Diamond sold the use of the hold big, for the rest of the match. Frye laid some hard stomps on Diamond, and got him with a near fall after a powerslam. With that, Frye yelled--or something, signaling for his finisher--The Triangle Arm & Leg Lock. As he locked it in, A fairly built, rather tall, black man wearing red amateur wear, on top of a white top, along with sun glasses, and a small mustache, came down the ramp, grabbed Vassuer and tossed him into the ring steps. The bell rang here, as Diamond finally gave up. Frye still had not seen the man, who looked to be, Charles Wright, formally Papa Shango. He was wearing a long sleave shirt under his amateur tank top wear, so it was hard to see if he had Shango's tatooes...but it was indeed, Wright. After Frye was announced as the winner, he turned around right into a tackle by Wright. Wright began nailing him with funky looking pummell punches while, Styles and Ventura went nuts pushing the idea that they had no idea who this "Fighter" is. While this was going on, Diamond pulled himself up using the ropes, grabbed the microphone, and started to direct the beating. Off mic, he was hear yelling, "Give it to him, Mustafa!! Give it to him! Give him the Fighter's Flight!" With that, "Mustafa" apparently--picked Frye up, and nailed him with an inverted DDT, getting quite the heel reaction from the crowd. I had mentioned that Wright/Shango seemed to be bulking up a bit over the last few weeks. And, I see why. For his new role. Diamond then started to talk, introducing the world to Wright's new character, and hinted at insiders the end of The Dark Carnival...

Diamond" Shangril-a!! Survivor Series!! Everyone's been talking about final sacrafices, and hell's pits, and this and that...well no one figured that little ol' Simon Diamond would have A PLAN!! Frye, I may have lost the match--and maybe I can't beat you at your own game--but I've found someone who can!! MEET THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER--KAMA MUSTAFA!!! That's right...except...this, here is a real STREET FIGHTER!! That's right!! Kama has earned his reputation at being the battest--not through the work of an agent! But by in actual CHICAGO STREET FIGHTING COMPETITION! This man is as tough as they come! He's as mean as they come! And he's as brutal as they come! He's been in 1 on 1's, 2 on 1's, 3 on 1's--HELL...he even took out a whole gang of street toughs, before!! Frye...meet the man, who'll laugh when you put him in your triangle lock!! Meet, KAMA MUSTAFA!!!"

With that Kama jumped on the second turnbuckle and held up his hands to the crowd, who gave him a very strong heel reation. Great job. And a very fitting place to bring in the Kama Mustafa character.

Overall: 71**1/2

Crowd: 63

Match: 79

Don Frye gained overness from this match.

Commentary Aftermath

Ventura" Ya know, Styles, that Frye is tough, he's bad, he's mean! But this man!! He grew up on fighting with no rules!! He fought on the streets!! He's taken out gangs! I don't know if even Frye can take this!"

Styles" That man is, indeed tough! He's charasmatic! And he looks like he can take on some pretty tough competitors---what..? What's wrong, Jesse?"

Ventura" I'm getting something from Dillon, Backstage!"

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Once again, The Undertaker is seen walking off into the distance.

The camera pans down, revealing Tammy Sytch laid out--immobile. Officials crowd over Tammy, asking each other who could be responsible for this.

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4. Sabu [94] defeated Hayabusa [80] in 20:48

Referee: John Finnegan

This match was everything it should've been...and maybe even more. Both of these competitor's popularity has increased, a great amount, over the last year. Hayabusa, ever since attacking Bret Hart and breaking up with Hakushi, has suddenly become a viable singles competitor--in the eyes of WWF Fans. Sabu, with this match, has made the leap from being a strong midcard attraction, to a strong dangerous competitor. These two didn't waste anytime in whipping out the goods. At 5:33, Hayabusa ducked a Sabu clothesline, and planted a well executed dropkick, sending Sabu up and over the top rope. He quickly followed up with a running springboard moonsault onto Sabu on the outside, getting a huge reaction from the fans. Hayabusa continued his onslaught with two Asai moonsaults. Big pop at 8:33 when Hayabusa started ripping up the outer ring mat exposing the hard floor. Hayabusa pointed to the turnbuckle, went up, and moonsaulted Sabu right on the concrete floor. An 'ECW' chant here started. I guess it was all fair game for Survivor Series, as Styles yelled: "I haven't heard that chant in years!" Ventura said that he had no idea what they were saying. Hayabusa continued his onslaught at a rapid rate, whipping Sabu hard into the railings. In WCW they've replaced the railings with some lame black coating. But not the WWF. Hayabusa then went for a springboard elbow, but Sabu moved, causing Hayabusa to fall hard into the ringside rail. Sabu quickly carried a chair and tossed it hard at Hayabusa's head. This sparked a huge "Sabu" chant. The WWF really put a good match together. Two guys that take hard bumps. Sabu brought the match into the crowd, and eventually to the stage area, where Styles and Ventura were stationed at. Sabu grabbed a table, and basically threw it at Hayabusa, connecting at the head. Several camera shots were thrown to John Finnegan in the ring, who had no idea what to do, as he completely lost control of the match. Sabu then stationed Hayabusa on the table, and proceed to climb one second up, to the second layer of the stage area, where the production team worked. He went for a falling cannonball, but Hayabusa moved, causing Sabu to crash onto the table. The Table wasn't gimmicked, but there was a huge *thud* sound that echoed, that sold the spot perfectly. Both men were laid out as another ECW chant started. Ventura, had one of the funniest lines of the night here:

Ventura" Ya know Styles--I'm not really impressed with the English of these Canadian Fans. 'He See Double You?' I mean, I know Sabu's probably seeing 'double' right now, after that fall--but wouldn't you think there's a better way of expressing that, rather than; He See Double You? He See Double You!!? "

At this point...The Bell Rang. No one new why. It was then announced by Joe Pedicino that referee John Finnegan has decided to throw out the match. The crowd booed this heavily. At this point, Paulie Dangerously came down the isle, soon followed by James E. Cornette. They were both pleading for Finnegan to let the match continue as the fans chanted "Let them go! Let them go!" After about 45 seconds of arguing, Antonio Inoki came to the ring, dressed up in his suit, as always. He then grabbed the microphone, and began yelling (and spitting) at Finnegan...

Inoki" They want to continue!! If these great fighters want to continue, then you let them continue!! You let them show thier spirit! You let them show their FIGHTING SPIRIT! FIGHT!! FIGHT!! FIGHT!! FIGHT!!"

Inoki then pointed to the ring bell, signaling for the continuation of the match as the crowd popped the loudest of the night up to this point. Styles mentioned how Inoki was a 'high ranking WWF official', that granted him the authority to make such a suggestion. With that, Sabu and Hayabusa started to trade blows right away on the stage. Excellent shot here of Styles making the call in the background. They eventually made their way back into the ring at 11:44. It should be noted that most of the match was indeed spent outside the ring. Sabu brought a chair into the ring, and had a number of innovative spots with the chair, in addition to his regular few. Great spot at 13:59 saw Sabu position Hayabusa in a squat position on the turnbuckle. He then ran from the opposite end, propelled himself off of a chair catching Hayabusa into a frankenstiener off of the turnbuckle head first into THAT chair, that he jumped off of, for a huge near fall--sparking a big "One More Time" chant from the crowd. Crowd actually popped for Hayabusa kicking out, as now, they were just enjoying the show that these two were putting on--regardless of heel vs. face. And actually, that's the way that these feud was pushed. While Hayabusa was always the academic heel, the fans were really never given a reason to hate him (Besides attacking Bret once, which everyone seems to have forgotten now), which is great--allowing for them to show 'respect' to Hayabusa for his ringwork. After a few more spots, the "One More Time" chants began again, for Sabu to do that Frankensteiner into a chair move. And to appease the fans, Sabu got another chair to perform the move once more. Except, this time, Hayabusa caught Sabu--Powerbombing him off of the top turnbuckle into the chair, getting nice reaction and a loud "ECW" chant. Talk about underhanded tactics. Styles mentioned here;

Styles (First at the move) " OH MY GAWD!!! And if you were worried about missing WCW's Dusty November--don't worry. Right now you're missing, Roddy Piper against the PHAT Meanie...I fell sorry for whoever bought that Pay Per View..."

After a near fall, Hayabusa gave a signal for his Stardust flip. He went for it, but as he was coming down Sabu grabbed that nearby chair, and placed it on his chest as protection, causing Hayabusa to 450 splash directly on top of the steel chair instead of soft flesh. This looked brutal. Hayabusa sold the move hard, as Sabu dragged him to the centre of the ring. Dangerously, then, threw yet another chair in the ring--this one used as Sabu's aid for his Triple Jump Moonsault that he used to win the match at 20:33 of a truly amazing match. Sabu pointed to the sky as a very loud "Sabu" chant overtook the PQ Molson Centre. With that, Sabu actually to the microphone to make an announcement...

Sabu (Amongst a loud 'Sabu' chant) " They say I didn't belong here! They say, this major league WWF wasn't for me!! Well I say the major league WWF just didn't want a someone like me!! Well guess what!! This maniac is entering the WWF 1998 Royal Rumble!!!" *huge pop*

Sabu's condition (-10)

Hayabusa condition (-7)

Overall: 87****

Crowd: 88

Match: 85

Commentary Aftermath

Styles" WHAT A MATCH! WHAT A MATCH! WHAT A MATCH!! WHAT A MAAAAAAAAAAATTTTCCCHHHH!!!"

Ventura" Styles!! That was the most grueling match that I have ever witnessed in WWF History!! I cannot believe how those two put their body's on the line!"

Styles" And he's the first man to enter the 1998 Royal Rumble in just two months!!!"

Ventura" I have a feeling that he's going to be the only man in the Royal Rumble!! I wouldn't want to get in the ring with him!"

Styles" And what about Hayabusa!!! That man is easily one of the most dangerous men in the WWF! He is indeed a Japanese Assassin!! "

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Right after the match, the cut to the back, again. This time, Dutch Mantell was on the floor, screaming in pain. WWF Officials ran over to the scene. Mike Rotunda asked Mantell, who did this to him. Mantell responded, "Lee..."

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5. Mike Barton defeated Al Snow in 15:56

Referee: Jim Mollineux

Styles and Ventura talked for a moment about how what the Darnival's words were starting to come true. Ventura mentioned how they promised that many would not make it beyond Shangril-a, and that those people were being targeted by the man himself--The Undertaker. Barton came out holding his old Secrect Agent Tag Team ring wear, and ripped it up in front of Snow which got a nice heel reaction. Barton then grabbed the mic and said...

Barton" This match, is dedictated to one of the original members of PRIDE! The man who was a co-holder of the WWF Tag Team Titles for over a year! The retired, 'Dr. Death' Steve Williams! Now Snow...I just checked the secrect agent forecast! And it ain't say nothin' 'bout snowing!"

Snow reacted by lunging out Barton like a wild animal starting a scuffle which ended up going to the outside. Much like the last match, this match spent the opening moments outside, in this case, the isle ramp. Barton caught Snow charging at him at 4:06, and manuevered him into a spinebuster, crashing down hard on the ramp. Unlike Finnegan, Mollineaux actually excercises a 20 count, so the two didn't get to far before returning to the ring. Barton dominated for a while with a few 'boxing' punches, as well as some low level power moves, including a few backbreakers, a sidedrop, two backdrops, and a hanging suplex, for several near falls. Snow battled back after powering out of an attempting piledriver, overhead tossing Barton to the outside of the ring. Snow, showed off his agility with an asai moonsault on the outside, which got a nice pop from fans. Snow began working martial arts style on Barton, leading to Styles put over his martial arts background for about 5 minutes. There were several 'Let It Snow' chants as Snow kept banging out nice kick and punch combos on Barton in the corner. Snow went for the snow plow a few times, but Barton was able to counter it--first, at 8:33 with a lariat, the second time, at 10:59, with a german suplex and the third with a backdrop. The counter backdrop actually came at 14:22, and signified the beginning of the end for Snow. It turned out that that Backdrop landed Snow almost directly on his head ala Dr. Death Steve Williams, one of the (According to Styles) "Pioneers Of PRIDE". Barton saw that he did special damage with the Williams version of the backdrop and sold the idea of 'capitalizing'. With that, he set up Snow again for a backdrop--except this time--the impact on the neck and head was done purposefully. He did it again, causing the crowd to cringe with each successive backdrop, this time holding Snow down for the 3 count. Cornette raised his hand, and was heard yelling at Barton...

"Just like Dr. Death, YOU are going to make an impact in the WWF! You are going to be feared!! You are going to use THAT move put away competition! You are Mike Barton!!! The Winner!!"

With that, Cornette raised Barton's hand as officials attended to Snow who was down in the corner clutching his neck. It looks like Barton's push continues, now modeling him after Steve Williams.

Overall: 85

Crowd: 87

Match: 81

Commentary Aftermath

Styles" Wow!! I think Mike Barton has discovered his new specialty!"

Ventura" It's all about PRIDE, Joey Styles!! And that's PRIDE--In honour of former WWF Wrestler--One of the first members of PRIDE--'Dr. Death' Steve Williams! He was the co-holder of the WWF Tag Team Titles for over a year! And that move is a strong reason why! If Barton can perform that move half as well as Dr. Death, then the WWF is in big trouble!!"

Styles" Al Snow came close to winning many times!! He almost nailed Barton with that dangerous Snow Plow on many occassions!! The WWF Intecontinental Championship is up next! Lets see how---WHAT!!?!!"

--------------------------------------------

Before they showed highlights of events leading up to the Four Way Frenzy, a clip is shown of the Undertaker walking off once again. The latest victim was pictured to be Bob Backlund, laid out on the floor. WWF Official Katey Jayne Myers saw this, and starting screaming. Running into the room was then JJ Dillon accompanied by the unamed Vince Russo. Dillon saw this and said;

" There's only one man who has the power to stop this. And he's got that chance tonight. I'm going to let him know what's going on..."

--------------------------------------------

6. Owen Hart [92] won the Four Way Frenzy Intercontinental Title Match in 25:33 over 'Highlight' Kid Shawn Waltman [93], Carl P. Oulette [93], and Shaggy 2Dope [92]

Referee: Bill Alfonso

Styles put over JJ Dillon being linked to Sting's past during the NWA stages of the Horsemen, as the I-C announcements were going on. Just about what you'd expect from this combination. Hart was the huge face here, obviously more-so since this was his home country. The announcers were building this match largley on the rivarly between Oulette & Owen, citing how Oulette turned on the Harts. 2Dope was actually the first to be eliminated. At 8:33, Waltman caught 2Dope, who was wrestling Owen, with his Lightning Kick off of the top turnbuckle, right as Shaggy turned around. Alfonso did a slow count, but Owen pushed Alfonso's hand down when he was hanging on the 3, thus eliminating Shaggy, confirming a definate title change. This got a huge pop. Shaggy took a long walk to the back, and showed a face of concern as if he was 'Worried about what he had to walk to'. The match picked up here as Hart & Waltman double teamed Oulette for a short while before Alfonso refused to make a count when Owen covered Oulette. The two, then went after Alfonso, before being double clotheslined by Oulette, from behind. Alfonso started jumping around the ring as Oulette started putting the boots to Waltman & Owen--nice referee. At 14:33, they did a tease heel spot with Waltman, as he was accidently got caught with flying forearm by Hart, when Oulette ducked out of the way. Oulette then went for the cover on Waltman, who kicked out, and started pushing Owen for hitting him. While the arguing was going on, Oulette went to the outside the ring to get a chair, and placed it behind him on the mat. Ventura started commending Alfonso's officiating here. As Waltman continued to ensue in a shoving match with Owen, Oulette snuck up behind him, giving him a falling German suplex, dropping Waltman right on the chair. Crowd reacted big for this as Oullette scored the pinfall over Waltman. Oulette and Owen then stared each other down for a few moments, as the crowd started going nuts for the final confronation. The two went at it, having probably a better exchange then they had in the past during the early year Oulette-Blue Blazer confronations, since both have vastly improved since then. Great spot came at 17:33 when Oulette tossed Owen outside the ring, and crotched him on the ring rail. He then yelled for the fans to move as he layed Owen accross a row of chairs....

Styles"...and Oulette...is going back into the ring...what could he be thinking? What could--OHH MY GAWWWDD!!! Plancha on Owen!! Plancha on Owen!! Carl Oulette has just dived over the top rope, onto Owen Hart -- IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CROOOWWWWDDDDD!!"

Ventura" Oulette has some amazing agility for a man of his size! That's what makes him so dangerous, Styles!! And there goes that 'He See Double You' chant again!!"

It's a good thing that Oulette doesn't mind taking risky bumps. That's what makes him an asset to the company. He may not have the 300 pound, 6 foot tall look, but he does make up for that in other ways. A long 'ECW' chant ensued as both men slowly made their way back into the ring. Heyman must've been the happiest man in the company each time he heard that chant. Alfonso administered the 10 count, getting up to 8, as both men laid on there back in the ring. Owen was the first to get up, and applied the Sharpshooter on Oulette at 20:33. Alfonso had no idea what to do. He didn't want to give the match to Owen, but he couldn't just watch Oulette scream in pain--so he started to pull Owen off of Oulette, continuing the heel ref angle--even though 'His Man' (Shaggy 2Dope) has been eliminated. As Alfonso continued to tug on Owen, referee Jim Mollineux came running down the ramp to confront Alfonso--and was met with a right hand by Fonzie. This was hilarious to watch, as the fans got on Alfonso. At this point, Hart released the hold and started yelling at Alfonso for not calling the submission and knocking out Mollineux. At this point, Oulette went to that chair that he used on Waltman earlier and went to hit Owen from behind, but referee Mike Chioda hit the ring just in time and grabbed the chair as Oulette went to swing. Oulette wrestled the chair out of Chioda's hand and whacked him with it, leading to Styles go on about how Oulette would have to pay hefty fines. Oulette then blasted Owen in the back, then quickly grabbed the stunned Hart, and gave him one of those falling German Suplexes. The crowd was livid at this point, as it looked like Oulette was headed towards victory. He started yelling at the fans in french which got a huge heel reaction -- I guess since they actually understand what he's probably saying--which is usually not the case. Oulette after getting Alfonso's attention, went to make the cover on the fallen Owen. But this time as Alfonso was about to make the 3 count, Jim Mollineux got up and started to pull Alfonso up by the hair. He then returned the punch to Alfonso, to the delight of the crowd. Ventura was great here,

Ventura" Now, what right does Mollineux have punching out Fonzo!? This isn't even his assigned match!! This is Alfonso's match!"

At this point, Oulette sprang up, and started shoving Mollineux, yelling, "What the hell are you doing! Who do you think you are!" While that was going on, Owen was slowly starting to get his energy back, thanks to a loud 'Owen' chant. Or at least that's what Styles wanted the viewers to believe. Final moments of the match came when Oulette, then, turned around away from Mollineux into a thrown chair by Owen. He caught the chair--but was quickly suprised when Owen followed it up with a dropkick to the chair, causing it to smash against Oulette's face. That was a modified version of 21CW's Rob Van Dam's 'VanDaminator', the national promotion that's being built around Jeff Jarrett, and has a complete roster of, like 15. Owen then quickly pinned Oulette at 25:33 for the cover winning the Intercontinental Championship for the first time in his career. The crowd went bonkers for their fellow countryman.

Overall: 82***

Crowd: 86

Match: 75

Commentary Aftermath

Styles" What a match!! Listen to this crowd!! Owen Hart is the new WWF Intercontinental Champion!! The King Of The Ring Tournament slipped away!! He got cut off at the semi finals of the C1 Clash!! But tonight, he went all the way!! Tonight, Owen Hart is indeed--as he says--Owen Hart is a winner!!"

Ventura" Oh No!! Oh No!! Oh No! You know what this means right Styles? {what?} This means that both Harts are champions!! Great!! That's all we need!! The WWF dominated by the Hart family! Just great!!"

Styles" Ventura I didn't hear a word that you said!! This crowd is going absolutley insane!! But...WHAT?!?!!?!?!? Who's being chased?"

--------------------------------------------------

They cut to the car park where Shaggy 2Dope is shown running into a limousine with what looks to be travel bags. As the car speeds off, a wide camera shot shows The Undertaker looking on from the door. The announcers mention that Lee may have just scared Shaggy out of the WWF, for loosing the Intercontinental Title...

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7. The Baddest Team (Zeus [89], Rhyno Starr [61], Devon Storm [59], New Jack [73]) defeated The Bad Men (Mike Tyson [90], Mr. Everything [79], Koko B. Ware [71], & 'The Natural' Butch Reed [71]) in 12:12 of a Survivor Match

Referee: Earl Hebner

They kept this one short, thankfully. Rhyno Star eliminated Butch Reed in 2:33, after nailing him with the spear out of no where. Koko's elimination came seconds later when he stepped into the ring and was met immediatley with another 'Starr Spear', as it's being called. Crowd was really into to Rhyno here. Nice way to get him over. Storm was then tagged in who then did some work with Mr. Everything. Crowd was pretty quiet for most of the match, as they were waiting for the big Zeus-Tyson frontation. The next elimination came at 7:33, as Mr. Everything nailed New Jack with the Everything pump handle slam. Everything made the cover as the Canadian crowd chanted, "She's a RAT" directed at Francine. Martin was put over huge here by New Jack, getting all of the offense. Storm was about to come in next--but Zeus pulled him aside and stepped in, yelling, and screaming as he always does. Everything charged him, but was met by a clothesline by Zeus, getting a huge pop from the crowd. Zeus, then began to stare and yell to Tyson, sparking a loud 'Tyson' chant. Everything crawled over to Tyson and made the tag, as Ventura hyped up the confronatation;

Ventura" This is it, Styles!! This is what everyone wants to see! The Baddest man in Wrestling against the Baddest man in Boxing!! Wrestling vs. Boxing, right here, live!! And, only in the World Wrestling Federation!"

Zeus did his double arm strike--Tyson sold it a bit, but then fired back with a less than convincing forearm. The two went back and forth for quite some time, before Tyson's hits seem to be getting the better of Zeus. As Zeus staggered, Tyson bodyslammed Zeus, which had the crowd, and the announcers going nuts....

Styles" Mike Tyson Bodyslammed Zeus!! Mike Tyson bodyslammed Zeus!!"

Ventura" Styles, that man is over 6 feet tall! He weighs over 300 pounds! That ain't easy to do!!"

Tyson, after playing to the crowd for literally 2 minutes, as they were in an uproar -- then went against the ropes dropping an elbow drop on Zeus. He went against the ropes again, but this time was suprised by a Starr Spear by Rhyno from the side! Style's must've yelled "Starr Spear" a million times. This was great for Rhyno, as the crowd broke into a rediculous "Rhyno Starr" chant, as Styles went on about how powerful Rhyno was, Zeus then got up and started to choke Tyson down, as Slick jumped up and down on the outside. Martin jumped in the ring to make a save, but was stopped by a Storm dropkick. Now, with all 5 competitors in the ring, Storm then knocked out Martin with a shining wizard. Ventura had no idea what the move was called, so replied to Styles' calling of the move; "...WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL ME?" Zeus kept choking Tyson after breaking every 5 seconds to honour the refs count. He then simply covered Tyson, hooking the leg for the elimination. This got a big pop. Ventura justified the pinfall victory rather well;

Ventura"...Well if ya gonna choke a man half to death, and the referee's not gonna do anything about it--of course you're not going to be able to kick out of a pin!"

As Tyson was helped to the back, Martin got up, and saw, Zeus, Starr, and Storm, all staring him down with menacing looks. Martin slowly began to back into the ropes, as Francine stealthly pulled down the ropes, allowing Martin to drop himself over the top rope, escaping the ring. Martin, then ran to the back, pulling Francine by his side, as he was heard saying; "I'm not facing those pscyo's alone!" Zeus and The Space Croppers are the survivors.

Overall: 70*3/4

Crowd: 74

Match: 63

---------------------------------------------

They shoot us to the back where New Jack was shown walking to the shower. The Undertaker appeared from behind a corner and started smothering New Jack's face with a cloth...New Jack then fell to the ground and passed out, much like the other 'victims' of the Undertaker earlier tonight. With that, Lee stared down at New Jack and said;

"Now...it's time...For The Ultimate Sacrifice"

---------------------------------------------

5 Minute Intermission. Those WWF Flashbacks were shown during this time for the Pay Per View viewers, as well as being broadcasted on the arena Big Screen TV. A hint of a Ric Flair return was given when they returned as Ventura mentioned something to the effect of Flair being one of the first victims of what ulimatley evolved into PRIDE nearly 2 years to the day (Survivor Series '95), and how he never got that revenge with his injury early last year.

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8. Sting defeated Lee The Undertaker in 13:59 of a Hell's Pit {Scaffold/High Incident} match

Referee: Dave Hebner

Wow. So this is why this show was rated MA-17. After the 5 intermission was over, they returned to Joey Styles and Ventura as they set up the ring for what was ultimatley a scaffold match, with layer of tables in the ring below the scaffold. They explained this match, as if they were "just learning", of the match, citing the pit of tables as the "Hell's Pit", that the Undertaker speaks of. Ventura went on about how, whoever falls into those stack of tables would indeed by an ultimate sacrifice, as they would never be the same again. Sting got a huge ovation coming out. He was in his usual crazy jacket wear--And I must say that the WWF made some nice jackets for Sting--while Undertaker's entrance took literally forever. The crowd was into this match big time. The two had a long staredown to start the match as the Air Centre went nuts. Ventura took this opportunity to knock at WCW saying that he was going to need an hearing aid like WCW Commisioner Harley Race. What made it even more insulting to WCW was that Harley Race isn't even commissioner anymore. It's Arn Anderson. Anyway the two, even though they were extremly limited, had a very good match, especially due to the crowd heat. A few bodyslam spots, and many teases by both men of throwing each other off of the scaffold. The ring must've been stacked with at least 12 tables. Awesome spot at 9:22 occured with both men fatigued, Sting was going for an inverted piledriver ala Tenzan, but Lee was able to shift around and reverse it into what resulted in a jumping tombstone. Crowd popped huge for this. At 10:41, Lee began to roll Sting over towards the edge, leading to the pit. Sting fell off to the side, but was able to grab on to the scaffold, much like hanging off of the roof of a building. Undertaker then stood up, rolled his eyes in the back of his head, and started doing an evil laugh, as Sting hung onto the scaffold. After looking around at the fans 'down below' Lee made a motion to stomp on Sting's hand, but Sting moved his left hand out of the way, and grabbed Lee's leg. Lee then used his other leg, but Sting moved his other hand, and grabbed onto Lee's other ankle. Now, Sting was holding himself up by Lee's ankles! The crowd was going nuts for this. Lee had no choice but to actually help Sting as he climbed back atop the scaffold. Lee quickly went for a chair, that was conveniently lying around on the scaffold, but Sting blocked his hit. Sting then kicked Undertaker, then followed with a loud chair shot to Lee's head. This stunned Lee, as he started to stagger around, heavily dazed. As a "Stinger" chant began, Sting nailed Lee with another hard chair shot. Lee continued in his groggy state, this time almost falling off the scaffold. Sting followed again with another shot, each shot getting a louder pop each time. By this time, Lee was literally hanging onto a pole with one hand, as he teased loosing his grip and falling onto the tables, or into 'The Pit'. What followed next was the sickest bump in WWF History....

Final Call By Joey Styles & Jesse 'The Body' Ventura

*Sting Hits Lee with Chair*

Styles"...another chair shot! By The Stinger!! Lee is teetering of the edge!"

Ventura" If he loose grip of that pole, Styles', into the pits of hell he goes!"

*Sting hits Undertaker, yet another time*

Ventura" How much more pain can The Undertaker take? How much more punishment can Lee withstand?"

*Sting holds up his chair, and starts mouthing "It's Time" over and over again. He gets in a position to swing the chair at Lee once more as he yells as loud as he can;

"For the Ultimate Sacrifice!!"

He blasts Lee, causing him to crash through the stacked up tables in the ring*

Styles" OHHHHH MYYYYYYYYYY GAAAAWWWWWWWDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!"

At this point, Styles and Ventura actually stopped talking. All that could was heard was the overwhelming "Stinger" chant, as Sting stood on the scaffold, looking down at Lee, lying motionless, in a pool of broken tables. Sting stood tall on the scaffold as the chant continued. There were several camera shots of the crowd, including getting many signs, one that read..."Sting+WWF=Ratings", and another that read, "Stinger, the WWF Saviour"...Sting's music finally hit as Sting climbed down the scaffold and high fived virtually everyone in the arena on his way to the back.

As minutes went by, Lee still laid motionless in the ring, much like his victims of earlier tonight. Officials and medical guys hit the ring, to help Lee. Suddenly, the crowd burst into a flurry of booes, as Bruce Pritchard emerged out of the curtain. Behind him was, brother, Dr. Tom Pritchard--dressed in a doctor's uniform. Styles mentioned here that Bruce was the man that introduced the Undertaker to WWF three years ago, as the boss of 'The Cartel'. Tom Pritchard shoved the other doctors and officials away, as he and Bruce tried to revive Lee. After thier efforts were met with little motion from Lee, they both helped him into the back.

It'll be interesting to see what they have planned for Brian Lee, now. They showed another shot of a fan holding up a sign that read,

"Brian Lee: The Ultimate Sacrifice"

Overall: 83**3/4

Crowd: 93

Match: 60

Undertaker -23 condition points

Sting -28 condition points

Commentary Aftermath

Styles" What a match that was, Jesse Ventura! You can bet that Lee will never be the same again!"

Ventura" I don't know Styles, but I do know that Bruce Pritchard's the man that brought Lee to the WWF, and as long as he's with him, then all will be fine!"

Styles" Well, that part actually worries me. Why did Bruce & Tom Pritchard come out here?"

*Inoki's New Japan ring entrance; "Inoki Bom Ba Yei" theme begins to play, as Styles and Ventura talk about the events (C1 CLASH, Corino's title lost etc) that led up to the next match*

Ventura" Well...ya hear that?! The GWF Champion Of The World Is coming down the ramp! It's time for the big one! The WWF World Title Unification match!!"

9. Hiroyoshi Tenzan defeated Bret 'Hitman' Hart and Steve Corino in 27:01 of an Elimination match to win the WWF World Championship

Referee: Bill Alfonso

Very good main event here. It should be noted that the ring was completly surrounded by WWF Road Agents and staff. JJ Dillon, Vince Russo, Ed Ferrera, Vince McMahon, Gerald Brisco, Pat Patterson, Mike Rotunda, in addition to Shane McMahon and a few other officials, all occupied the outer regions of the ring. Inoki was also at ringside, but he was guised as being in the corner of Tenzan, along with manager James E. Cornette. Styles acknowledged it on TV citing this as being a History Changing Match, since the GWF and WWF Titles were going to be unified to make the WWF World Title. Tenzan and Corino worked really hard against Bret, who didn't seem to be putting to much effort into his moves. The stuff between Bret and Tenzan was great, with each exchange ending in Bret getting the upper hand, putting over Bret's experience at being in big matches. Minutes later, Corino interupted Bret's dominance by suprising him with a low blow--a move that seems to be reserved for Corino. The three men had a innovative spot at 11:22; Tenzan had Hart in a position for a somoan drop, but Corino dropkicked Tenzan. Tenzan no-sold the dropkick and began screaming at Corino. Corino nailed him again with the dropkick, which allowed Bret to maneuver a DDT onto Tenzan, getting a huge pop, and a near fall. Corino and Bret started to go out it again, this exchange ended with Hart tossing Corino over the top rope onto Inoki and the rest of the WWF staff. Dillon and McMahon went down hard. Crowd was going nuts for Hitman at this point--but he turned around into a Tenzan cartwheel kick. Tenzan began nailing Bret with those hard mongolian chops. Corino then got back in the ring but was greeted with a Tenzan heabutt, which send him back through the ropes, and to the outside. Tenzan continued his onslaught on the Hitman until Hart reversed an irish whip into the ropes, taking Tenzan down with a clothesline. Both men sold being fatigued, as they were now into the 15th minute of the match. They did a spot where Tenzan "invited" Hitman to clothesline him. Tenzan followed suit. Both men no-sold the other getting the crowd riled up. Finally, Tenzan started to stagger from the Hitman's 5th clothesline. Hitman quickly followed up with a well placed savatte kick, sparking a huge "Hitman" chant and sending Tenzan down. Hitman, then started to go for his finishing routine. After the russian leg sweep he went to the second turnbuckle for his elbow..but Corino suprised him by running back into the ring, and catching him with an Ace Crusher off the top rope, for a near fall. Tenzan began to recover and, immediatley went after Corino nailing him with a lariat, then, again tossing him over the top rope. Once again, Corino was tossed into a group of officials--this time, Rotunda, Ferrera, and Ole Anderson. He then made the cuthroat sign as he nailed Bret with his Top Rope Headbutt, leaping from corner to corner. Tenzan then pinned Hart as Alfonso made the three count, despite Hart's left foot being on the ropes. Tenzan immediatley got up, gloating to the hostile crowd that he put Bret away with his headbutt. Bret, actually held onto Tenzan for a few seconds, while he was trying to get away, and looked to be especially upset, that he lost his WWF Title and his chance to unify the championship. At this point, for some reason there was a long stalemate. Styles kept going on about how Bret's foot was on the ropes, blaming it on the well known dubious officiating of Bill Alfonso. Hart stood up, and started to stare at Tenzan, who was still going on with the fans. He then looked over to JJ Dillon, who was standing side by side with Vince McMahon & Antonio Inoki, and mouthed "This is bullshit." Corino was still selling being thrown to the outside. At this point, Inoki entered the ring standing in front of Tenzan and Alfonso, and pointed to the curtain, signaling for Bret to leave and honour his elimination. Bret had a long staredown with Inoki, and soon began talking about his foot being on the rope. For some reason, Alfonso was also hiding behind Inoki as Bret continued to stare at Inoki and Alfonso...

Ventura" Styles, I don't care how many times Bret held that WWF Title! He don't want to mess with Antonio Inoki! That man is a legitimate martial arts expert! This man can bend your bones in more way then most! Hart had better heed Inoki's orders and leave the ring!"

Styles" But this time, Bill Alfonso's officiating has gone tooooo far! This is the WWF Title on the line! And worst of all, this is the Hitman's home!"

Ventura" This is a sport!! The home team doesn't always win, Styles!!"

At this point, the fans started to chant 'Bullshit', as Hart started to leave the ring. He looked over in the direction of Dillon, Russo and McMahon, and started to walk over to them, until being blocked off by Inoki once again, motioning for Bret to leave. Hitman seemed to have no choice, as Styles continued to push Alfonso over as the most scrupulous referee in WWF history.

Bret Hart stepped into the ring again, as Tenzan continued to look on. Corino was still layed out. Inoki, like a hawk, followed right behind Bret. The "Bullshit" chant was louder than ever. Hart actually spit in the direction of Dillon outside the ring, but the camera cut away to two fans who hopped the railing. One, from the left side of the ring, had an Agent Risktaker T-Shirt on. Security was right behind him as he jumped in the ring and charged Tenzan. Tenzan simply grabbed him until security got into the ring. Another fan used this opportunity to hop into the ring on the other side, he went up to Bret shook his hand, and in his excitement yelled "This is bullshit, Bret! It's Bullshit! You're the champion! You're--". Ole Anderson, Mike Rotunda, and Tony Garea quickly took out this fan later identified as Fieldy. JJ Dillon then, grabbed a microphone and yelled;

"Do not run out of the stands, are you will be arrested!"

Finally, Bret shook his head, leaving Inoki with a parting middle finger...another gesture that didn't make the cameras.

The match continued after a short delay, and it took a while for the crowd to get back into the match, after their hero was eliminated. The image of Bret Hart standing, staring at Inoki as he points to the back, is one that I'm sure that will be all over the Wrestling publications in the months to come. As of now, no one knows for sure what the problem was, if there was one..but it was clear by the amount of time that Bret stayed in the ring, that something wasn't right. Anyway, the match continued with Corino suddenly becoming the face against the man that eliminated Bret Hart. As Corino battled with Tenzan, Styles questioned as to whether Alfonso's officiating could cost Corino his chance at unifying the gold. About 5 minutes later, at 20:20, a masked man dressed in all black, with the words "Black Scorpion" accross his leg pants, made his way into the ring, and started wrestling, attacking Tenzan in particular. Ventura kept yelling;

Ventura" That's the Hitman!! That's the Hitman and I know it!! What a sore looser, Styles!"

However, Ventura's claim looked to be untrue when the 'Black Scorpion' threw Tenzan into the turnbuckle and followed through with an avalanche that closely resembled Sting's Stinger Splash. At this point, Vince Russo sent Mike Rotunda & Ole Anderson, along with McMahon sending in Patterson & Brisco to try to get this 'Black Scorpion' from attacking Tenzan. Styles emphasized that referee Bill Alfonso could not excercise a DQ due to the importance of this match. Finally, they got the Black Scorpion out of the ring, to a loud "Stinger" chant that we've heard so much of during the last match. As Scorpion remained on the outside besides Dillon, Corino nailed Tenzan with the Dusty Elbow, for a near fall. Corino had a great facial expression here of fustration. Minutes later, Corino busted Tenzan's face open with an Ace Crusher, and a near fall. After playing to the crowd, Corino then picked up Tenzan, and went against the ropes for a swinging neckbreaker, but Tenzan suprised Corino by countering with his somoan drop, getting a huge reaction from the crowd. With that Tenzan quickly went up to the top rope nailing Corino with a moonsault. Both men were down for a while, until Tenzan went up to the top rope for another moonsault--but no pin. Finally, at 26:33, Tenzan gave the cut throat sign and finished of Corino with his top rope headbutt winning and unifying the World Wrestling Federation Championship.

A bloodied Tenzan celebrated with Cornette and Inoki, holding up the new WWF World Title Belt, on all four turnbuckles as Inoki's music played in the background. Cornette and Inoki shook hands, and hugged as Styles pointed this as being nearly a 3 year operation by Cornette and Inoki. I was wondering why the show didn't end directly after Tenzan's win. That's when, Ric Flair emerged from the curtain, on crutches, to a huge pop and alot of scattered "Woo's" from the crowd. As Flair waddled to the ring on his crutches, The Black Scorpion, hit the ring again, attacking Inoki &am

[ChuBalso]

9. Hiroyoshi Tenzan defeated Bret 'Hitman' Hart and Steve Corino in 27:01 of an Elimination match to win the WWF World Championship

Referee: Bill Alfonso

Very good main event here. It should be noted that the ring was completly surrounded by WWF Road Agents and staff. JJ Dillon, Vince Russo, Ed Ferrera, Vince McMahon, Gerald Brisco, Pat Patterson, Mike Rotunda, in addition to Shane McMahon and a few other officials, all occupied the outer regions of the ring. Inoki was also at ringside, but he was guised as being in the corner of Tenzan, along with manager James E. Cornette. Styles acknowledged it on TV citing this as being a History Changing Match, since the GWF and WWF Titles were going to be unified to make the WWF World Title. Tenzan and Corino worked really hard against Bret, who didn't seem to be putting to much effort into his moves. The stuff between Bret and Tenzan was great, with each exchange ending in Bret getting the upper hand, putting over Bret's experience at being in big matches. Minutes later, Corino interupted Bret's dominance by suprising him with a low blow--a move that seems to be reserved for Corino. The three men had a innovative spot at 11:22; Tenzan had Hart in a position for a somoan drop, but Corino dropkicked Tenzan. Tenzan no-sold the dropkick and began screaming at Corino. Corino nailed him again with the dropkick, which allowed Bret to maneuver a DDT onto Tenzan, getting a huge pop, and a near fall. Corino and Bret started to go out it again, this exchange ended with Hart tossing Corino over the top rope onto Inoki and the rest of the WWF staff. Dillon and McMahon went down hard. Crowd was going nuts for Hitman at this point--but he turned around into a Tenzan cartwheel kick. Tenzan began nailing Bret with those hard mongolian chops. Corino then got back in the ring but was greeted with a Tenzan heabutt, which send him back through the ropes, and to the outside. Tenzan continued his onslaught on the Hitman until Hart reversed an irish whip into the ropes, taking Tenzan down with a clothesline. Both men sold being fatigued, as they were now into the 15th minute of the match. They did a spot where Tenzan "invited" Hitman to clothesline him. Tenzan followed suit. Both men no-sold the other getting the crowd riled up. Finally, Tenzan started to stagger from the Hitman's 5th clothesline. Hitman quickly followed up with a well placed savatte kick, sparking a huge "Hitman" chant and sending Tenzan down. Hitman, then started to go for his finishing routine. After the russian leg sweep he went to the second turnbuckle for his elbow..but Corino suprised him by running back into the ring, and catching him with an Ace Crusher off the top rope, for a near fall. Tenzan began to recover and, immediatley went after Corino nailing him with a lariat, then, again tossing him over the top rope. Once again, Corino was tossed into a group of officials--this time, Rotunda, Ferrera, and Ole Anderson. He then made the cuthroat sign as he nailed Bret with his Top Rope Headbutt, leaping from corner to corner. Tenzan then pinned Hart as Alfonso made the three count, despite Hart's left foot being on the ropes. Tenzan immediatley got up, gloating to the hostile crowd that he put Bret away with his headbutt. Bret, actually held onto Tenzan for a few seconds, while he was trying to get away, and looked to be especially upset, that he lost his WWF Title and his chance to unify the championship. At this point, for some reason there was a long stalemate. Styles kept going on about how Bret's foot was on the ropes, blaming it on the well known dubious officiating of Bill Alfonso. Hart stood up, and started to stare at Tenzan, who was still going on with the fans. He then looked over to JJ Dillon, who was standing side by side with Vince McMahon & Antonio Inoki, and mouthed "This is bullshit." Corino was still selling being thrown to the outside. At this point, Inoki entered the ring standing in front of Tenzan and Alfonso, and pointed to the curtain, signaling for Bret to leave and honour his elimination. Bret had a long staredown with Inoki, and soon began talking about his foot being on the rope. For some reason, Alfonso was also hiding behind Inoki as Bret continued to stare at Inoki and Alfonso...

Ventura" Styles, I don't care how many times Bret held that WWF Title! He don't want to mess with Antonio Inoki! That man is a legitimate martial arts expert! This man can bend your bones in more way then most! Hart had better heed Inoki's orders and leave the ring!"

Styles" But this time, Bill Alfonso's officiating has gone tooooo far! This is the WWF Title on the line! And worst of all, this is the Hitman's home!"

Ventura" This is a sport!! The home team doesn't always win, Styles!!"

At this point, the fans started to chant 'Bullshit', as Hart started to leave the ring. He looked over in the direction of Dillon, Russo and McMahon, and started to walk over to them, until being blocked off by Inoki once again, motioning for Bret to leave. Hitman seemed to have no choice, as Styles continued to push Alfonso over as the most scrupulous referee in WWF history.

Bret Hart stepped into the ring again, as Tenzan continued to look on. Corino was still layed out. Inoki, like a hawk, followed right behind Bret. The "Bullshit" chant was louder than ever. Hart actually spit in the direction of Dillon outside the ring, but the camera cut away to two fans who hopped the railing. One, from the left side of the ring, had an Agent Risktaker T-Shirt on. Security was right behind him as he jumped in the ring and charged Tenzan. Tenzan simply grabbed him until security got into the ring. Another fan used this opportunity to hop into the ring on the other side, he went up to Bret shook his hand, and in his excitement yelled "This is bullshit, Bret! It's Bullshit! You're the champion! You're--". Ole Anderson, Mike Rotunda, and Tony Garea quickly took out this fan later identified as Fieldy. JJ Dillon then, grabbed a microphone and yelled;

"Do not run out of the stands, are you will be arrested!"

Finally, Bret shook his head, leaving Inoki with a parting middle finger...another gesture that didn't make the cameras.

The match continued after a short delay, and it took a while for the crowd to get back into the match, after their hero was eliminated. The image of Bret Hart standing, staring at Inoki as he points to the back, is one that I'm sure that will be all over the Wrestling publications in the months to come. As of now, no one knows for sure what the problem was, if there was one..but it was clear by the amount of time that Bret stayed in the ring, that something wasn't right. Anyway, the match continued with Corino suddenly becoming the face against the man that eliminated Bret Hart. As Corino battled with Tenzan, Styles questioned as to whether Alfonso's officiating could cost Corino his chance at unifying the gold. About 5 minutes later, at 20:20, a masked man dressed in all black, with the words "Black Scorpion" accross his leg pants, made his way into the ring, and started wrestling, attacking Tenzan in particular. Ventura kept yelling;

Ventura" That's the Hitman!! That's the Hitman and I know it!! What a sore looser, Styles!"

However, Ventura's claim looked to be untrue when the 'Black Scorpion' threw Tenzan into the turnbuckle and followed through with an avalanche that closely resembled Sting's Stinger Splash. At this point, Vince Russo sent Mike Rotunda & Ole Anderson, along with McMahon sending in Patterson & Brisco to try to get this 'Black Scorpion' from attacking Tenzan. Styles emphasized that referee Bill Alfonso could not excercise a DQ due to the importance of this match. Finally, they got the Black Scorpion out of the ring, to a loud "Stinger" chant that we've heard so much of during the last match. As Scorpion remained on the outside besides Dillon, Corino nailed Tenzan with the Dusty Elbow, for a near fall. Corino had a great facial expression here of fustration. Minutes later, Corino busted Tenzan's face open with an Ace Crusher, and a near fall. After playing to the crowd, Corino then picked up Tenzan, and went against the ropes for a swinging neckbreaker, but Tenzan suprised Corino by countering with his somoan drop, getting a huge reaction from the crowd. With that Tenzan quickly went up to the top rope nailing Corino with a moonsault. Both men were down for a while, until Tenzan went up to the top rope for another moonsault--but no pin. Finally, at 26:33, Tenzan gave the cut throat sign and finished of Corino with his top rope headbutt winning and unifying the World Wrestling Federation Championship.

A bloodied Tenzan celebrated with Cornette and Inoki, holding up the new WWF World Title Belt, on all four turnbuckles as Inoki's music played in the background. Cornette and Inoki shook hands, and hugged as Styles pointed this as being nearly a 3 year operation by Cornette and Inoki. I was wondering why the show didn't end directly after Tenzan's win. That's when, Ric Flair emerged from the curtain, on crutches, to a huge pop and alot of scattered "Woo's" from the crowd. As Flair waddled to the ring on his crutches, The Black Scorpion, hit the ring again, attacking Inoki & Cornette from behind. He then greeted a charging Tenzan with a powerslam, and started to put the boots to him, as Flair made his way closer and closer to the ring. Styles mentioned that the Black Scorpion was actually sent back into the ring by Dillon, on the outside.

Final Call By Joey Styles and Jesse 'The Body' Ventura

Ventura" That's the Nature Boy on the way to the ring!"

Styles" Yea, but he's got that broken leg! And the Scorpion continues to put the attack on Tenzan!! What is going on here!? "

Ventura" It's the Hitman, I told you!! He's bitter!! He can't stand that he lost in his home country!! Hitman's selfish!! But what I don't understand, is why Dillon would send The Hitman back into the ring!"

**Flair enters he ring...The Black Scorpion backs up as Flair stands over Tenzan, the new Champion. Cornette and Inoki get some parting kicks on the other side of the ring. Then, Flair looks around, lets out a loud "Wooooooooooooooooo!!!", and smashes one of his crutchers over Tenzan's back.**

Styles" Ohhhhhh MYYYYYY GAWWWWWWDDDDDDDDD!!! Flair just broke that crutch over the back of the WWF World Champion!!"

Ventura" I don't believe it, Styles!! Ric Flair is back!! His leg is heeled!! Miracles do happen, miracles do happen!!!"

Styles" BUT WHO'S UNDER THE MASK!!!!!!"

At this point, Ric Flair let out a "Wooooo!!" and extended his hand, to the man who he brought into the Four Horsemen just 3 years ago, Steve Corino. Corino accepted the gesture, and embraced Flair, to a huge pop. Flair then yelled again, this time pointing to the Black Scorpion...Scorpion, then lifted off his mask, revealing himself to be, indeed Sting, getting another huge pop. Sting then did his modified "Wooooo!!", while Flair followed up with his "Wooooo!!". The two started going back and forth getting the crowd more and more into this, before finally embracing each other to a loud pop. At this point, Flair started dancing around and pointed to JJ Dillon, on the outside, who laughed and pointed back before entering the ring. Ric Flair's music started to play, as JJ Dillon shook Flairs hand, hugged, and posed with Flair, Corino, and Sting. WWF Survivor Series '97: Shangril-a went off the air with JJ Dillon clapping as, Ric Flair, Steve Corino, and Sting, raised their hands in unison bearing, the sign of the Horsemen. Flair kept laughing and "Wooooo"'ing, Corino nodded with his smirk, and Sting kept yelling, "Yeeeaaaaahhhh!" the way he usually does, as the PQ Molson Centre cheered the men on, almost forgetting about Bret Hart's loss. Good plan.

Overall: 84***

Crowd: 89

Match: 74

Bret Hart was sluggish and didn't put much effort in.

Commentary Aftermath

Styles"Is this what I think it is?!?"

Ventura" Styles, don't you get it? This is what Sting was talking about!! This is what Sting was rambling about over the last few weeks! This was his reality!! If The Undertaker won that Hell's pit match, then the Dark Carnival's reality would come through! The reality that they spoke of!! The reality of Darkness! And Evil!! But now!! Sting's won his match! Lee was the Ultimate Sacrifice! And now look at the result of it!! Sting's reunited with long time friend, Ric Flair! Two of the orginal Horsemen members!"

Styles"...And Dillon's another original Horsmen member! And they stand tall with Steve Corino, who started his career as a horsemen right here in the WWF!!"

Ventura" This is more than a mere stable! This is a brotherhood, Styles!"

Styles" An Unholy Brotherhood!! Tenzan may be the WWF Champion! But it looks like he's got a group of guys that are looking to change that!!"

Ventura" Change that, and the WWF, as we know it!!"

Styles" I'm Joey Styles, for Jesse 'The Body' Ventura, I'll see you tommorow night! For the Shangril-a Aftermath! It's Monday Night RAW, live from Charlotte, North Carolina at the Expo Dome!"

Ventura" Listen to this crowd, Styles!! The WWF will never be the same, again!"

Show Quality: 80%

Buy Rate: 1.99

Best Match: Hayabusa vs. Sabu

Worst Match: The Baddest Men vs. The Baddest Team

Other Shows

WCW Dusty November - Buy Rate 1.97

Best Match: WCW Title- Keiji Muto vs. Masahiro Chono

Worst Match: Hulk Hogan vs. The Berzerker John Nord vs. Scott Haul vs. Shawn Michaels

Reality Twist: Mark Calloway remains a midcarder

GCG Schwimmer Showdown - Buy Rate 1.33 - Global 40%

Best Match: Dan Severan vs. Kurt Angle

Worst Match: Giant Gonzalezz vs. Hawk

Reality Twist: Ever since Jim Crockette was fired, their image has increased. New Owner, Dr. Kent Schwimmer

ECA Combat Coolmine - Buy Rate .87 - Global 8%

Best Match: JC Ice vs. Nova

Worst Match: Cowboy Bob Orton vs. George 'The Animal' Steele

Reality Twist: Signed Tony Halme after the WWF's release. Halme is the #2 Star behind (injured) Bam Bam Bigelow

21CW Century Battles - Buy Rate .80 - National 94%

Best Match: Terry Funk vs. Jeff Jarrett

Worst Match: Jimmy Garvin vs. Hillbilly Jim

Reality Twist: Non Wrestlers are, Don Muraco, Captain Lou Albano, and Terry Funk.

5SSW - 5 Star Splash - Cult 59%

Best Match: Christian Cage vs. Rick Titan

Worst Match: Haku vs. Nightstalker (Adam Bomb)

Reality Twist: Haku is their #1 star. Their #2 star, Doomsday (Glen Jacobs) is out for 2 months.

VZF Rock Johnson's Johnsonfest - Cult 18%

Best Match: Bob Holly vs. Jimmy Del Ray

Worst Match: Black Bart vs. Tiger Ali Singh

Reality Twist: Don Harris is the top star. His brother, Ron Harris was recently stolen by WCW.

USWA's Thanksgiving's "No Turkeys Allowed" - Regional 85%

Best Match: Chavo Guerrero Jr. vs. Satoshi Kojima

Worst Match: Nikiti Koloff vs. Brickhouse Brown

Reality Twist: The longest running territorial Promotion in Wrestling.

Edited February 5, 2005 by Javert

[ChuBalso]

Survivor Series '97:Shangril-a

PART III

Montreal - PQ Molson Centre - The Locker Room

12:20am

Bret Hart got out of the shower, and returned back to his lockeroom to get his stuff together. On the way back, he ran into Dave Hebner and asked him if he new where Vince was. Hebner informed him that both McMahons left for the night...

In the lockeroom, was also Steve Corino and Steve Borden aka Sting...

Bret

" I guess this makes you two the top guys now..."

Both Corino and Borden nod, kinda shrugging off the Hitman's comments. Sting's almost done packing away his stuff.

Bret Hart

" Hey, Borden, you had to know about what went on out there?"

Borden

" Hey, I'm still the new kid on the block, man. All I was told, is to go out there after the 20 mark, in the Black Scorpion suit--Dillon's idea. Attack Tenzan for a few minutes. And wait until the end of the match to do the reunion with Flair. That's it."

Bret

" Yea, but, all I'm saying is that I know that you two and Dillon are close. And if he planned anything screwy--"

Borden

" Hey, whoa, listen dude. What happened out there is between you and him. I wasn't officially in the match. So I didn't go asking Dillon to give me info on every match. If you have questions for Dillon. Ask him. Now, I gotta go, good luck Bret."

This now leaves, Corino and Bret alone. Corino is about to leave, but Bret uses this opportunity to ask Corino almost the same question.

Bret

" Hey, Steve. You stood outside the ring for a mighty long time. You knew that was going to happen didn't you?"

Corino

" Hey...what I was told is that Tenzan pins you...your foot on the ropes get ignored. You argue with Alfonso. Then you return to the back. I was told to lay on the outside, and let you enjoy your last moments in the ring with your Canadian fans. I get back in the ring. Work my ass off against Tenzan, and eventually put him over. That's what I was told. And that's what happened--except for the part where you almost got into a legit fight with Inoki. I wasn't told anything about that. About the part where you almost spit on JJ. That part I wasn't told of. If you were told differntly then you gotta take it up with Dillon."

Bret

" What about Russo?"

Corino

" Russo? Russo? Are you fucking kidding me? Russo wrote all of the Undertaker stuff. Do you think that Russo has any conception of history to fathom reuniting, Me with Ric Flair and Ric Flair with Sting?"

Bret

" Yea. And you were always Dillon's boy. He always saw you as a Horseman. Ric Flair -- taken you under his wing, now that you're older. You've got it all, kid."

Corino extends his hand to Bret. But it's clear that Bret doesn't believe that Corino is oblivious to his questions. When his gesture not reciprocated, Corino instead pats Bret on the back before leaving.

Corino

" Hey. That's another story. Whatever. All I'm saying, is that you're asking the wrong person. I'm telling you what I know. What I was told. And what I saw. Like Borden said--you got problems with Dillon? Maybe a communication misunderstanding--you take it up with him. I think he's still in his office."

Corino leaves Bret to finish packing his bags. Bret is then joined by his family. He informs them of the apparent communication problems that aroused earlier tonight.

Montreal - PQ Molson Centre - The Backstage Corridor

12:45am

The corridor was filled with quite a number of the staff, as they stood outside JJ Dillon's Office. According to word of mouth, Bret was in a private meeting with Dillon, Ole Anderson, and Mike Rotunda. However, from the shouting that was going on, it was clear that there were a few more people inside. Ric Flair's voice was also heard. The shouting was followed by 4 large thuds, followed by more shouting, then silence. Bret Hart stormed out of the office and to his lockeroom. He then quickly grabbed his bags and was seen storming out of the back exit.

Finally, about 15 minuters later, JJ Dillon, with his bags, walked out of his office...with a slight bruise on the side of his head, being ushered through crowd in the hallway by Ole Anderson & Ric Flair. Mike Rotunda shadowed right behind them.

There was a murmur in the hallway as Dillon and company continued out of the arena.

Styles" But this time, Bill Alfonso's officiating has gone tooooo far! This is the WWF Title on the line! And worst of all, this is the Hitman's home!"

Ventura" This is a sport!! The home team doesn't always win, Styles!!"

-Survivor Series '97: Shangrila PPV-

The image of Bret Hart standing, staring at Inoki as he points to the back, is one that I'm sure that will be all over the Wrestling publications in the months to come.

-Dave Schmeltzer -

Survivor Series '97: Shangrila Report

Edited February 5, 2005 by Javert

[Stevie Idol]

Good PPV Javert, but I still think Inoki should have knocked Bret out.

[Hewey]

This was my first time reading the Survivor Series, And it was a great show Javert. One of my favorite PPV's in the diary along with Wrestlemania '94. Sucks about what happened with Bret, But he was being sluggish anyways, So is he gone now or what? I'm still loving the Crimson Twins, And hopefully they got some gold around their waist, But Booker/Stevie make good champs. Sucks that Al lost, As I was hoping you'd push him. Is Barry Horowitz gonna get pushed or something? You always say how over he is, It wouldn't surprise me to see him as a IC Champ or something.

[The Punisher]

I can only describe it in two words: Un-fucking believable. I mean, that was one of the best show's I've read in a diary. The Hell's Pit Match was great, and the 3 Way with all controversy was beatiful.

[Blacklotis]

I LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT! THE REUION OF THE 4 HORSEMEN! I thought they were awesoem during the beginning of ur diary. I can't wait to see how that developes. I like don frye nd how ur pushing him. I could see Flair getting the title very soon. I wouldn't be surprised. Crimson twins are the coolest. Again, great job Javert. Your my hero lol.

[EZE]

Hehehe. And so it begins. One of the most unpredictable stages of the most unpredictable diary on the board. All hail. KING TENZAN!~!~!~! Ive always felt he was an awesome choice for you to pick as the head of Inoki's WWF.

Great cover up too of the Screwjob by reuniting the Horsemen. Vince would of never been that fore-thinking IRL.

[marc]

Javert Bravo Buddy You R The king Steve Corino I love him on this diary along with sting and lee. The Segiments where u had lee attack Dutch mantell,New Jack,etc were great keep it up

[ChuBalso]

Excellent.

Thank you guys for the awesome words, and glad that others who haven't read this before, was just as amazed with the PPV as first time readers were. And, of course, thanks to long time readers like idol, eze, raistlin, fieldy, and marc, as well as that guy that said ahile back that's he's been reading forever making his like first and onl ypost for enjoying this a second time.

This is the culmination of what I wanted the WWF to be. Sure, there's no way that I could've anticipated the curveballs (Flair being on the shelf for two years, Inoki become road agent, Rotunda become road agent adding to storylines), but what I wanted to creat was, as eZE said, "Inoki's WWF". Of course, in the beginning it was JJ Dillon's, James Cornette, and what would evolved into the CARTEL's WWF (ala clique-Cornette, Flair Pritchard, Dillon..based on history), but as was mentioned by someone, Hiro Tenzan was in lowercard matches for a reason.

So now, this is finally my wwf. Realistically and logically woven. A simulation diary. Over several versions of EWR and now onto 1.3v?

So now I ask, should I induct this into the HOF as is, and begin the new era post Shangrila?

Or should I continue this up until Wrestlmania '98, the first "NEW" show of WWF '98, The Xfactor.

OH!

And I almost forgot!

How's this for "symetry", from Shangrila report....

A hint of a Ric Flair return was given when they returned as Ventura mentioned something to the effect of Flair being one of the first victims of what ulimatley evolved into PRIDE nearly 2 years to the day (Survivor Series '95), and how he never got that revenge with his injury early last year.

Edited February 8, 2005 by Javert

[LL!]

Go for Wrestlemania as that is when technically the new WWE year begins.

[marc]

Wrestlemania

[paulbd]

This is the first time I have posted in your great diary. I loved Survivor Series and I think you should post up to Wrestlemania, or atleast Tuesday Night Titans I think the name was.